Make the Move Easier on Kids

Moving is never easy for adults. It is even worse for kids. Talking with my friend yesterday got me to thinking more and more about her kids. Her youngest is only two and I can only imagine how hard it is going to be for that little guy to move. They are hoping to move just after the first of the year. Originally, they wanted to be in the new house before Christmas but changed their minds. I am so glad that they did because it would have been rougher than what it will already be. The stress and worry for the kids over whether Santa would be able to find them could be too much. I thought I would put together a few tips to help make moving with kids a little easier. 

Tell Them About the Move

Don’t wait until the last minute to tell them about the move. Share it with them from the first moment the decision is made. Share with them the reasons why you are moving (if it is possible.) Kids are smart and they will get stressed over the change they are going to have to make. 

Go Local

If you are going to use movers and aren’t moving far (within the same town) than hire local movers instead of  large company from out of town. This will help because the movers will be familiar with the town. they can talk with your child about areas they already know. Not to mention if the town is small enough your children may already know them.

Acknowledge Their Sadness

Don’t ignore the fact that they will be sad or figure they will get over it. That sadness should be acknowledged. In fact, do something to help them have some closure. For example, the day before the move (or even just before you leave the house for the last time) allow them time to say goodbye to the house. Encourage them to say goodbye. It may seem silly but I promise they will love you all the more. Plus deal with it better. 

Visit the New Place

If it is possible take the time to visit the new house. If it is in the same town, drive by. If you are moving to a new town close to where you live now take a weekend or two and get to know the new town. Spend the day checking out all of the places that you may go. Check out the school, go to a local restaurant, let your child decide. Take them there and allow them to see the new place before springing it on them if possible.

Keep Them Occupied 

If possible have a babysitter or someone else who the kids can stay with during the move. This will keep occupied and less likely to stress out. Allow them the chance to say goodbye to the house and then leave with a good feeling. They don’t have to watch all of their toys being taken out of the house. It will make thins much more difficult. 

Cut Your Stress

If you are stressed out it will stress out your child. You can book moving services to cut that stress on moving day.  It will make everyone happy. In fact, order pizza or something else easy for that first night in your new house. Relax and things will go smoothly for everyone. 

Have you ever had to move with children in tow? Share your experience with us?