Nomadic Families

Stability and routine are often lumped together as one and the same in child rearing. We are all sold the story of the house with a white picket fence you buy when you get married, that has three bedrooms for your two point five children. Days go by in a blur of work and school, family dinners and rituals before bed. The American dream, so we have been told.

However for many families, for better or worse, are not in such a situation. There are families who must uproot for multiple reasons. The first that comes to mind is the military, but other careers as well as unemployment and poverty, has caused families to move often than past generations. Being a traveling family isn't necessarily bad.

Many families have successfully lived happily lives traveling together. Traveling  vendors, artist, performers, truck drivers, etc... have traveled together throughout their children's lives. Although I can not prevent your move, I do have suggestions on making the traveling easier on you and your family.

First, you need to come to terms with the move. No matter the circumstances, accept your losses and the challenges ahead of you. Breaking yourself with stress will only make any current problems worse and create new ones.

Second, get rid of as much stuff as you possibly can. When moving around a lot your items will slow you down. It cost more money to store and transport your possessions. Yard sales and charities are great ways to unload extra stuff, that can hold you down. Let your children actively play a role in what they give up. Ridding yourself of this physical excess baggage will help you with your moving run smoother.


Third, make plans for your new home. Whether it's a club house in a back yard or a garden in a flower pot in a small apartment, try to come up with an activity to make your new home more inviting.

Fourth, parents ideally try to move over the summer so their children can finish the school year at their current schools. However, moves can be sudden and inconsiderate at times, which is why I suggest home schooling if you are able to provide it for your children.

If you are going to consistently move throughout their childhood, you should consider this option, so your children's grades don't suffer.

Fifth, keep contact with the friends you and your family encounter through your travels. This will give your children the childhood friends memories are made of. Moving a lot has its benefits, such as meeting all kinds of people who come from different walks of life. Where other children may graduate with the same people they have known since kindergarten, your children will have the opportunity to meet lots of different people.

Sixth, no matter how far or often you move, remember this is your families life. Make the best of it to create a happy life and happy memories. Try to keep, keepsakes from each place to be a part of the root of your family life.

Families come in all shapes and sizes. Some of us travel, a lot. Remember, not all who wander are lost.