As a Forces child, you may need to move house.
It is okay if you’re feeling sad, nervous, angry, or even excited. Lots of children and young people tell us that saying goodbye to friends is one of the hardest parts. But some, also tell us that they are used to it. Everybody is different, and that is okay.
The important thing to remember is this:
Just because you’re moving doesn’t mean your friendships have to end.
Top Tips
Tell someone how you’re feeling. You don’t have to keep it all inside.
Stay in touch if you can. Messages, video calls, letters or even sharing funny photos can help you stay connected.
Make memories together before you leave. Take photos, write in each other’s notebooks or create a friendship keepsake.
Be yourself. The best friends like you for who you are.
Remember—you can miss your old friends and make new ones too.
Moving away from a friend can feel really hard. Before you say goodbye, why not make something together that you can keep forever?
There isn’t a right or wrong way to do it—you can use anything you already have at home or school.
How to make a friendship keepsake
“As a Forces child myself, I am delighted to pass on this friendship keepsake activity to the next generation! This is something I did when moving away from one of my best friends, when I was about 10 years old. We were really sad about me leaving, so we sat down and created this booklet full of drawings, photos, memories, inside jokes, and more. Throughout the years, this wee book has been the thing that has kept us talking. Years have gone by: I am working hard with Ruby Boots, she is working even harder as a mother to a gorgeous little boy, and we still talk, all because of this.”
Heather, Ruby Boots Project Coordinator (right)
Starting somewhere new can feel exciting… but it can also feel a bit scary.
Whether you’re starting a new school, joining a new club, or moving because your parent is leaving the Armed Forces or is being posted, you might be wondering:
“What if nobody talks to me?”
“What if I don’t fit in?”
If you’ve ever had those thoughts, you’re not the only one. Lots of children and young people feel nervous about making new friends. The good news is that friendships usually start with one small moment.
You don’t need lots of friends to belong. Even finding one person you enjoy spending time with can make a big difference.
And don’t worry if it takes time—real friendships grow little by little.
Here’s an activity that can help:
How to make a friendship chatterbox