While the actual moving day may be the hardest day of your life – it is best
to be there in order to support your child. Again, your child isn’t doing this
to hurt you, and they still need you to play an active role in their life
regardless of where they live.
Help them pack their things, decide what stays and what goes (it is
preferential to keep the same furniture and some clothing items for their
visits) and help them transfer these items either by dropping them off at the
new home, or packing them in your ex’s car.
Before they leave your house, let your child know that if they ever want to
live with you full-time in the future, that the door is always open. Remind
them that they can call and visit anytime they like – your house will always be
their house too.
And once they are gone, there will be a huge adjustment period, but time
will help the situation. Everyone adapts at their own rate, and it may be
easier to accept the new living arrangement if you keep the focus on your
child.
And who knows what the future will hold, you may find your child back in a
few months, or they may choose to stay with the other parent until they reach
adulthood. Whatever the case, you are their parent, their confidante and their
guide through life. Don’t disappoint them now – you’ve already made the hardest
decision of your life. Move forward and continue to be there for the one who needs
you the most – your child.