Moving with little ones can be stressful in an already overwhelming life event. If you are moving from the house where you started your family and you are worried about how your kids will handle the change, take a few minutes to read about how you can make the move less stressful.
Before The Move
Start Talking About the Move Early
Once you find out that you are moving, start integrating it into conversations with your kids. Frame it as a positive and exciting experience so that they aren’t confused as you start to pack up their things. Let them know that they can ask any questions about the move that they want and answer them honestly. Remember to also highlight the positive parts about moving like choosing a new room and meeting new friends.
Involve Them In Fun Moving Tasks
Let your kids help pack up their toys, books, and other items in their room. That way they won’t just be boxed up one day and cause confusion in the days leading up the the move. You can also spend an afternoon at the hardware store, allowing them to pick the decorations for their new rooms. These things will get them excited about the new place and keep them from dwelling on the fact that they are leaving their current home.
During The Move
Stick to Routine As Much as Possible
On a moving day, try to maintain as much normalcy as possible. Keep meals, naps, and bedtime schedules as consistent as you can so that you aren’t dealing with cranky kids on top of handling everything else. Learn more at the website of Two Small Men with Big Hearts moving company to see if you can work out a moving schedule that aligns with your routine. If your kids need to have a nap, then the movers can use that time to take a lunch break so that it is quiet in the house for a few hours. You can also talk to the movers about moving the furniture in the kids’ bedrooms so that they can still sleep in their beds on the last day.
Arrange for Childcare on Moving Day
If you are afraid having the kids around on a moving day will be a hazard to everyone involved, then arrange for them to have a day with their grandparents or at a playdate. This keeps them safe and allows you to focus on the move.
After the Move
Unpack the Kids’ Rooms First
The sooner they feel settled in their new environment, the less stressed your kids will be. For kids, moving to a new place and picking a new room can be exciting, but if they can’t find their familiar toys or books for bedtime on the first night, it could turn into an ordeal. The sooner they are comfortable in their new rooms, the better.
Explore the New Neighborhood
Once you know where you will be moving, start taking your kids to that neighborhood to familiarize themselves with the area. Take them to the local park where they may make new friends, which will get them excited about living there.
By keeping your kids in the know about the move, involving them in fun moving tasks, and getting them excited about the new house, your move will be less stressful and everyone will be ready to start this new chapter.
