Planning a move with kids is a delicate business. Some kids can’t wait for the adventure of a new home. But some kids view moving as something stressful or scary. Whether you’re moving to a new house with a toddler or an older child, there are a few key points to bear in mind.
Here’s our advice on what to consider when moving with kids.
SCHEDULE THE MOVE DURING SCHOOL VACATION
If you can do this, it will be way easier on your child. And of course, way easier on you. Your kid will be able to relax and explore their new surroundings for a while before easing into school.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR KIDS FOR MOVING
There are lots of good children’s books that deal with the theme of moving. If your kids are age-appropriate for this, it can be a nice way to make moving seem familiar. And of course, encourage conversations about moving.
You might like to say goodbye to favorite places as well as people, to help them to accept the process.
KEEP THEIR MOST LOVED TOYS OUT OF THE BOXES
Favorite teddies should really ride in the car or plane with the kids. It can be traumatic if kids feel all their belongings have gone. Or if the house starts to look really different. For families with kids, we highly recommend our packing and unpacking service.
We’ll pack and unpack promptly so your current place won’t look unfamiliar with boxes everywhere. Plus, your new place will look like home straight away.
GIVE THEM WARNING
You don’t want them to find out from a friend’s mom or dad who accidentally mentions it, thinking they already know. When the move is finalized, tell your kids you’re moving in a positive, calm way.
Also tell them why you’re moving and when. Is it for a better job for you or your partner? Is it for more space? Maybe it’s to see the grandparents more.
Invite them to ask questions whenever they want, and share if they are worried about anything.
TELL KIDS ALL THE GOOD THINGS ABOUT THE NEW PLACE
Are you moving long distance or moving internationally? They could be in for a whole new kind of fun that they haven’t experienced in your current California home. Maybe they’ll be able to build snowmen in the winter or ride in a yellow New York taxi. Be sure to tell them about anything exciting.
Plus, what’s your new place like? Will there be a bigger yard? A games room? Will you be able to have a pet?
And when you get there, how are you planning on celebrating? Ice cream? We recommend ice cream.
TAKE A TRIP TO YOUR NEW HOME IF YOU CAN
Moving locally? Then it’s easy to show your kids the new place. It’s not so scary when you see it in real life. Be sure to point out all the great features like new spaces to play.
KEEP THEM IN THE LOOP
Kids can get some funny ideas about moving. And not ideas that adults had necessarily thought of. Make sure you tell them everyone is coming, for one. All the family, and all their toys, even if they’re in boxes right now.
GET A SITTER FOR MOVING DAY
If you’re moving locally it’s a good idea to leave the kids with a trusted adult on moving day. It will speed everything up and you can relax knowing they’re being taken care of. There won’t be any risk of accidents with heavy boxes either.
If you can’t do that then at least…
STAY POSITIVE AND CALM ON MOVING DAY
For your sake as well as the kids.
When you’re in a good mood, your kids are more likely to feel positive about the move too. And in fact, the same goes for pets, too. Hiring a great moving company is vital so that everything goes smoothly.
LET THEM DECORATE THEIR NEW ROOM
If they’re old enough it can be a lot of fun to choose colors and furniture. Race car bed, anyone? Space for dens?
Teens and pre-teens could also paint the walls. That way, they’ll have something to look forward to when they get there.
CONSIDER THE POSITIVE EFFECTS OF MOVING AS A CHILD
We all want to provide our kids with a stable home. So a lot of parents worry about moving with their kids.
But many confident, well traveled adults report the positive effects of moving as a child. An expertly-managed move can be a great opportunity for a child to become a better socializer and to see the benefits of change.
HOW TO SETTLE A CHILD INTO A NEW HOME
First things first, unpack their belongings first, or at least promptly. That way the new place will look more familiar and they can play with their toys. Plus, they will know where everything is, which is calming.
Every kid is different so go easy on them and see how they’re finding it as time goes on. Much like adults, kids might be irritable or exhausted. It’s a real art knowing how to settle a child into a new home. It may require calming activities, or energetic activities to work off excess energy.
AIR1 MOVING & STORAGE SUPPORTS YOUR MOVE WITH KIDS ALL THE WAY
Moving with kids needs to be done right. So you need a company with 20 years experience carrying out seamless moves in California. We’ll take care of everything so you can focus on the wellbeing of your kids.
For a fantastic move call Air1 Moving & Storage at (866) 552-2916. Want to write? You can use our quick contact form, or email us at [email protected].
