Top 5 Movies To Watch With Kids About Moving

Moving to a new home can be both exciting and challenging for children. As parents, we often seek ways to help our little ones navigate this significant life change. One effective method is through the magic of movies. Films can provide relatable stories that spark conversations and offer comfort during times of transition. Here's a list of five fantastic movies that can help ease your children into the idea of moving and provide valuable life lessons along the way.

What your kids may be feeling in the event of a move?

Anxiety and Fear - Worrying about the unknown, new environments, and new people can be at the forefront of a child's mind during a house move. They might feel scared about leaving their familiar surroundings and the friends they've grown close to. The uncertainty about what lies ahead can lead to anxiety, making the moving process feel overwhelming. Addressing these concerns through open conversations and reassuring your child can help alleviate these fears and make the transition smoother for them.

Sadness - Leaving behind friends, familiar places, and routines can be particularly difficult for children. The attachment they have formed to their current environment provides a sense of security and identity, and the idea of saying goodbye can evoke deep feelings of loss and sadness. They might miss their favorite playground, their school, or even small daily rituals that brought them comfort. Helping children cherish these memories while encouraging them to look forward to new opportunities can provide emotional support during this difficult time.

Excitement - On the flip side, moving to a new home can also bring a sense of excitement for children. The prospect of new adventures, new rooms, and making new friends can be incredibly thrilling. They may look forward to exploring a new neighbourhood, decorating their new space, or joining different activities and sports clubs. This anticipation can help balance their anxieties, giving them something positive to focus on. By highlighting the fun aspects of the move and involving them in the process, parents can help foster this sense of excitement and make the transition a more enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Confusion - It's not uncommon for children to experience a whirlwind of mixed emotions surrounding a move. Alongside their sadness and excitement, they might also feel confused about the reasons behind the change. They may not fully understand why they have to leave their current home, school, or friends, particularly if the decision to move was made due to factors like a parent's job relocation or family reasons beyond their comprehension. This confusion can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and emotional turmoil, making it essential for parents to communicate openly and simply about why the move is happening. By explaining the reasons in a way that is age-appropriate and reassuring, parents can help lessen the confusion and provide a clearer picture of the positive aspects of the transition.

Loneliness: Feeling isolated in a new place without familiar faces can be particularly challenging for children. The lack of their usual social support system, including friends, teachers, and neighbours, can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. They might miss the daily interactions and sense of belonging they had in their previous environment. This period of adjustment can be tough, but encouraging participation in new activities, setting up playdates with other children in the community, and finding groups or clubs with similar interests can help. By facilitating new social connections, parents can support their child in rebuilding their social network and help them feel less alone in their new surroundings.

5 movies kids can relate to about moving

1. Inside Out Click to look into! >> Read More... (2015)

This Pixar masterpiece takes us on an emotional journey with 11-year-old Riley as she moves interstate from Minnesota to San Francisco. The film beautifully illustrates how our emotions react to big changes in life.

The plot takes you on a journey to follow Riley's personified emotions, Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust, and Anger as they navigate the challenges of moving to a new city. The movie explores change, emotional growth, and the importance of family support during difficult times of a move.

Following the move the following can be discussion points:

• How moving affects our emotions and what coping mechanisms children can use.
• The importance of acknowledging and expressing all feelings during a move, even the uncomfortable ones.

2. Toy Story (1995)

While not explicitly about moving, this beloved classic touches on themes of change and adaptation that are relevant to any child facing a move.

The plot shows Andy's toys, led by Woody and Buzz Lightyear, face the challenges of potentially being left behind or replaced as Andy prepares to move to a new house. The film emphasizes friendship, loyalty, and adapting to new environments.

Following the move the following can be discussion points:

• The value of maintaining old friendships while being open to new ones.
• Strategies for making new friends in an unfamiliar place.

3. Finding Dory Click to look into! >> Read More... (2016)

This heartwarming sequel follows Dory's quest to find her family, mirroring the journey many children embark on when moving to a new place.

The plot is a story of Dory, a forgetful blue tang fish, goes on an adventure to find her long-lost parents, highlighting the idea of finding one's way in unfamiliar surroundings. The movie continues to showcase the ideas of family bonds, persistence, and the concept of homecoming.

Following the move the following can be discussion points:

• What "home" means and how it can change or evolve.
• The importance of persistence and optimism when facing unfamiliar situations.

4. Up (2009)

While not directly about moving, this film beautifully captures the spirit of adventure that can come with relocating.

It's a story of Carl, an elderly widower, and Russell, a young boy scout, embark on an incredible journey to fulfill Carl's lifelong dream of moving his house to Paradise Falls. The movie celebrates adventure, fulfilling dreams, and unexpected friendships.

Following the move the following can be discussion points:

• How moving can be seen as an exciting adventure rather than a scary change.
• The importance of keeping an open mind and forming new relationships in unexpected places.

5. Lilo & Stitch (2002)

This Disney classic touches on themes of belonging and creating a family, which are especially relevant for children adjusting to a new environment.

The script follows Lilo, a young Hawaiian girl, and her alien pet Stitch form an unconventional family while dealing with social services and trying to fit in. The film explores the concepts of family, acceptance, and finding where you belong.

Following the move the following can be discussion points:

• The diverse definitions of family and belonging.
• Adjusting to new places and the importance of acceptance and understanding.

Conclusion

Moving can be a significant life event for children, but these movies offer valuable lessons and relatable characters when moving with kids to help them through the transition. By watching these films together, families can open up discussions about their own moving experiences, fears, and excitements. Remember, every child reacts differently to change, and these movies can be excellent tools to help them express their feelings and concerns.

So, grab some popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and let these heartwarming stories help your family navigate the adventure of moving to a new home. Who knows? Your next family movie night might just be the perfect opportunity to turn apprehension into excitement about your upcoming move!