Award-Winning Children’s Author Shares 5 Tips to Help Kids Cope with the Stress of Moving
Children’s author and Gold Mom’s Choice Award winner Nadine Haruni addresses the topic of relocation in her delightful book, Freeda the Frog Is On the Move. In the book, Haruni and illustrator Tina Modugno tackle the subjects of stressful moves and accepting change through the story of Freeda and the tadpoles, who must leave their familiar hometown for a new one.
Synopsis:
Freeda the Frog Is On the Move is the third book in the Freeda the Frog series by Nadine Haruni. After marrying Samson, Freeda invites him and his tadpole to join her two tadpoles on her lily pad. However, fitting five frogs into such a small space proves to be a challenge. They decide to move to a new home, city, and school, which helps them become closer as a family. Haruni hopes this book will help children facing worries about moving or significant life changes see that there is always a silver lining. At the book’s end is a coloring sheet and a word find for children to enjoy.
Nadine Haruni is the award-winning author of The Hat Diaries fantasy adventure series and the Freeda the Frog children’s books. She is also a practicing attorney, certified yoga instructor, and the proud mother of a blended family of five children.
Haruni offers our Detroit Mommies readers the following tips:
5 Tips to Help Your Kids Cope with the Stress of Moving:
1. Communication is Key—Open, honest conversations help ease anxiety. Whether your child is preparing for a big move or heading to sleepaway camp, explain what to expect and why it’s happening. Invite them to ask questions, share their feelings, and be part of the planning process. Feeling heard can help them feel more in control.
2. Create a Positive Atmosphere—Frame the experience as an adventure. Let kids help pack and choose what to bring to their new room if you’re moving. If they go to camp, involve them in picking out supplies or decorating their bunk area with items familiar to them from home. Turning the unknown into something exciting can ease nervousness.
3. Maintain a Sense of Routine—Big changes can feel less overwhelming when some parts of life stay the same. Try to maintain consistent routines before and after the move, or on the days leading up to camp. Regular mealtimes, bedtime rituals, or favorite snacks can offer comfort and predictability.
4. Familiarize Them with the New Environment—Help kids feel more grounded by exploring their new surroundings together. If possible, visit the new neighborhood before moving. For camp, show them photos or a map of the campgrounds, talk about daily activities, and, if available, attend an open house or orientation session.
5. Be Patient and Supportive—Transitions take time, and emotional ups and downs are regular. Whether adjusting to a new home or feeling homesick at camp, give them space to express their feelings. Validate their emotions and let them know it’s okay to feel nervous, sad, or even excited all at once.
*Freeda the Frog Is On the Move is associated with Mascot Books; ISBN 979-8989621705; Original Trade Paperback and is available on Amazon for $13.46. Click HERE to order.
