Tips for relocation with children

[ScotlandinAugust]

My DH and I decided in May 24 that we would like to relocate to Edinburgh. I wanted the career boost a city brings without being forced to work in London and DH spends his spare time walking around Scottish mountains so it worked for us.

We have worked our tails off to finish up renovating the house and sell it, I've got a job offer in Edinburgh that not only exceeds my current salary but offers development and guaranteed progression.
DH WFH so there's no issue there.

This move brings opportunity and lifestyle boosts like being near the coast and mountains while also having city resources on our doorstep. It's an adventure and I feel so lucky to be able to pursue this dream.

The huge downside is that my beautiful sweet DS 7 is really feeling it. We've been taking about it in day to day conversation for the past year, giving space for his feelings and making sure we are mentioning the positives. Understandably he is both excited and upset, this is the only home he has ever known, 400 miles further south. This week we have hit alot of lasts, last football tournament, last few days of this school and he is getting tearful in the evenings.

Does anyone have any tips for easing the impact for him?

My DD 4 is absolutely not phased and seems to have full understanding but i wonder whether reality will hit a bit later for her.

On a rational level I know this is the right decision for our family but I'm so frightened of damaging the children and am wondering if its a really selfish decision for us to have made.

Wise mumsnetters, how can I make this easier for the kids?

It's too late for this now, but I would have kept it under wraps until much nearer the time. Kids don't need to live with uncertainty for a year.

For now, I would respect his feelings. Don't try to cheer him up too much, let him be sad. It is sad to say goodbye to his friends, his football team, his school etc. I'd share your feelings about what you're sad to say good bye to so he knows he isn't alone in feeling sad.

Once you get to Edinburgh, then it's time to start talking up all the amazing new opportunities. Let him choose the design for his new bedroom. Have as much fun as you can before school starts. Get him signed up to a football team up there so he can start making friends straight away (under less pressure than at school). If you can get out and about in the local area so he can meet some of the kids he will go to school with.

Make sure to take key pieces of furniture and decoration with you, particularly from his bedroom so he can feel at home as quickly a possible.