Whether you are moving across the street or across the country, moving with kids can be stressful on both you and them! Luckily, the move doesn’t have to be painful for anyone!
Check out our tips for moving with kids, and make your relocation a breeze!
Tips For Moving With Kids!
Saying goodbye is often one of the most challenging parts of life’s transitions. Whether bidding farewell to dear friends or a beloved home, the act of parting can evoke a mix of emotions, from nostalgia for the familiar to anticipation of the unknown. For children, moving can be particularly difficult, as they may struggle to grasp the reasons behind the change and the potential benefits it may bring. They might not yet understand that this move could lead to new friends, exciting opportunities, and a chance for personal growth. As adults, we can help them navigate these emotions by offering reassurance, listening to their concerns, and highlighting the positive aspects of the move. With patience and understanding, we can help our children see that farewells, though bittersweet, can also pave the way for new beginnings and adventures.
Tip #1: Talk To Them
As soon as the move is a definite go, share the news with your kids. Make them feel apart of everything, and openly discuss the new and exciting changes about to happen.
Reassure your children that all of their possessions, books, toys etc., will all be coming with them and share all of the wonderful and exciting benefits of the move.
Tip #2: Get to Know Your New House
If the house is nearby, get your kids excited by going to see it. Let them see their rooms and have them plan out how they want to decorate.
If you’re moving further away, show them lots of pictures and use google to learn all about the area.
You could even draw out the room, and let them decide how they want their furniture arranged.
Tip #3: Let Them Help With Packing
It’s crucial to approach the moving process with sensitivity, especially when it comes to younger children. They might not fully understand why their belongings are being packed up, which could lead to confusion or distress. Take the time to explain to them that their things are not being thrown away but instead being carefully packed up and moved to the new home. You can involve them in the packing process by letting them help with packing some of their items or choosing which toys they want to bring with them. This can help them feel more involved and reassured during this transitional period.
When preparing for a move with children, involving them in the process can make the transition smoother for everyone. Encourage them to pack up their toys, allowing them to feel a sense of responsibility and control over their belongings. To add a personal touch, let them decorate their boxes, making them easily recognizable in the new space. Prioritize setting up their items and room first upon arrival, even if it means temporarily delaying other unpacking tasks. This approach can help children feel more at home in the new environment, easing the adjustment period for the entire family.
Having that sense of familiarity will help keep their anxiety down.
Tip #4: Get to Know The Neighbors and the New Area
As soon as possible, become a part of your new community. Introduce yourself to the neighbors. Invite people on your street over for a house warming party.
Participate in local activities that will allow both you and your kids to make new friends. If your child is on the shy side, talk to them about making new friends and help them think of ways to break the ice with the kids at their new school.
Tip #5: Keep Your Routines
Do you always get ice cream on Saturday afternoons? Or maybe you spend Sunday mornings at the park? Whatever routines you can keep, you should do so.
Try to remain consistent with meal times and bedtimes. Keeping kids in their routine will help keep them calm and will help you feel a sense of order.
Always remember, while moving might be hard on you, it might be even harder on your kids. As much as possible, stay positive with them and make the whole process a grand adventure. Make the process fun and memorable and as stress-free for them as possible. (It will help you feel more relaxed too!)