6 Moving Tips for Single Parent Service Members

Being a single parent has its challenges, but when you’re also a service member in the midst of PCSing, the challenges are compounded. Frequent moves can be tiresome, and one way to make PCSing more fun is to find the adventure in the moment.

Here are six tips to help ease the stress of relocating to a new duty station:

1. Sell the new location to your children.

Before you PCS, research the area you will be moving to. Look for things your child might be excited about like a theme park, groups or sports to join, sporting events to watch, or day trips to experience. By promoting your new place, it should help ease their fears of moving.

2. Use Youth and CDC programs.

Many installation Child Development Centers offer hourly child care options, which can be helpful for those last minute errands before a PCS or anytime you unexpectedly need childcare.

3. Make finding your new home a family activity.

Resources such as DoD Housing Network or Military By Owner provide lists of housing options and community information. Once you find your next home, consider allowing your child to choose the theme of their next bedroom—maybe a new bedding set or wall hanging for younger children or new posters or a bulletin board for older children. If possible, purchase it before you PCS, so your children have those items when you arrive and can start creating their own new space.

4. Tap into your resources.

Army Community Service connects service members to play groups, relocation counseling, family readiness groups, sponsorships for service members and youth, and many other beneficial resources. The Exceptional Family Member Program, an ACS service, works with housing, medical, educational, and personal services to provide anyone with a special needs family member comprehensive and community support. Contact them early so EMFP can coordinate with housing to make sure your new home meets your needs.

5. Create lasting memories.

To make moving a fun memory, first set expectations. Packing and unpacking are no picnic, but remember that home is where you make it. In those moments, look for ways to do things together to strengthen your bonds. Have your child mark one big box as the “Save for Fort” box. When they get it unpacked at the new place, they can play fort, train, or house with it for a few days. Let the little ones pack a box of crayons and coloring books. They will feel part of the experience and will have something to keep them busy while you unpack.

Consider letting your older children “unpack the kitchen.” They can decide where plates and such go. Being part of organizing a new home is a valuable experience. Check out our column, Making Your Kitchen the Heart of Your Home, for more bonding ideas in the kitchen.

6. Rely on your old and new Battle Buddies. 

Creating a solid support system is key, especially when juggling child care, work, bills, chores, or moving. Call on your current battle buddies to babysit your kids while you deal with the packers and movers. When you arrive to your new duty station, look for opportunities to create new friendships.

Being a single parent service member, of course, has its challenges. When you feel like you’re in a jam, take a deep breath and remember these tips. Never be afraid to look for help when necessary, and don’t ever feel like you need to do everything on your own. The happier you are, the happier your children will be as well.