There are many reasons why you might want to consider relocation with your teenager. Maybe you’re feeling stagnant in your current location and are looking for a change. Or perhaps you’re struggling to find good schools, jobs, or housing in your area. Whatever the reason, it’s essential to discuss the idea with your teenager first.
If they’re reluctant to move, that’s ok — there are ways to get them on board. But it will take some effort on your part. Don’t let your temper flare or jump to conclusions about their feelings on the matter. Instead, approach them with an open mind and see if they are interested. Here are some steps to help you float the idea to your teenager.
Step 1: Establish an open line of communication
First, talk to your teenager about why you’re considering relocation. Once they have a clear idea of your motivations, give them time to think it over and ask questions. If you can’t answer one of their questions, then tell them that, but reassure them that once you have all the information, you’ll let them know.
Next, ask them what they think of the idea. Take any concerns or worries they express seriously but make sure not to get angry if their response isn’t favorable. If they think moving would be bad for their life, let them know that it can go either way.
For example, say you’re considering relocating because the area has subpar schools. Your teenager may think that this is an excellent opportunity to go to better schools, or they might tell you that they’d rather stay put regardless of the education they’re getting right now. Let them share their opinion without any pressure.
Step 2: Give them time to adjust
If your teenager seems supportive, that’s great! But they may still need some more time to adjust to the idea of relocating. Don’t try to push them — let them take their time. And if they’re still hesitant, don’t worry because it’s not necessarily a bad thing. There are different reasons why your teenager could be reluctant to move.
Some teenagers might be reluctant because they have friends or family in the area who they don’t want to leave behind. In this case, you can reassure them that it’s possible to keep in contact with their loved ones no matter where they go.
Others may be reluctant because they’re not ready for a significant change. In this case, you can remind them that the relocation could go either way; there are some benefits and drawbacks. So, let them know that they’ll still have support from their family and friends during and after the relocation process, no matter what happens.
Step 3: Find a middle ground
If your teenager is still hesitant or resistant, don’t get discouraged. You can do things to get them on board with the idea. First of all, make sure they know that it’s alright if they’re not 100% comfortable with the idea — this can be a tough decision, and it’s ok if they need some time to think it over.
Another tactic is to create a list of the pros and cons of relocation, which you can both sign. This shows that you’re on the same page; even if your teenager is not fully supportive, they know that you are willing to think things through with them.
Consider giving them some extra responsibilities before moving, so they can feel like they have a say in what’s going on. This is especially helpful if you know your teenager is reluctant to move because of friends or family.
You could also involve them in the decision-making process more often by asking them what they think of certain decisions that need to be made. For instance, you could let them decide if you’re hiring professional movers or doing it yourself. This shows them that you trust their opinions, and it could help you get them on board with the move.
Step 4: Get advice from others
If nothing seems to be working, you can also enlist the help of a close friend or family member. They may have insights that you don’t. And if they’re supportive of your decision to relocate, they might be able to offer some advice on how to convince your teenager as well.
The point is that there’s no harm in asking for help. If your teenager is important to you, it’s worth it to get them on board with your decision. Just remember that making the final decision will be up to you, so make sure that your teenager knows that they have a say in what happens too.
It can be tough talking about moving with your teenager because no matter how many times you reassure them, you won’t know how they feel until the relocation process starts. But don’t worry — by building an open line of communication and taking things slow, it should be easy to get them on board.
