Moving constantly can have a negative effect on families with young children. Families in which one or both parents are in the military can be susceptible to constant moving, and this could have a detrimental effect on the children in the family. Many children who are only seven or eight years old have already because to three or four different schools due to moving. Many children have had this experience.



Children who move only once or twice in their childhood are less susceptible to these damaging effects. These children may even find moving to be exciting; it is a chance to start over, make new friends, and maybe even change yourself. However, children who are forced to move around several times per year can have serious problems in the future. These children may feel like they are not in control or as though no one cares what they want. What if they do not want to move? These kids are forced to go where their parents go and this can hurt them later in life.

Children from families who move frequently can also have problems at school, not only socially, but academically as well. These children may have a hard time making and keeping friends. I know that I have a few close friends that I have known since elementary school. These kids do not have that at all. They are forced to make new friends every time they move, and usually lose touch with friends from their previous home. Academically, it is very easy for these students to fall behind. Most school districts follow different programs, different states have varying curriculum standards, and in the long run, it is very easy for a child to fall behind due to gaps in their education.

Logistically speaking, it can be difficult not only for families involved in frequent moving, but for the people around them as well. While these children have a difficult time reintegrating into school settings several times in their school careers, teachers frequently have a difficult time integrating new students into their classes, as well. Parents face a multitude of challenges, as well, including finding childcare, after school activities, etc.

Constant moving can be hard on everyone involved, especially with families involved in the military who are relocated on a yearly or biyearly basis. Children, teachers, and parents are the most directly effected by constant moving.I bet it is extremely difficult to readjust at all, let alone every year or two.