Whether it’s a few blocks away or across the country, moving to a new place with unfamiliar surroundings can be nerve-racking. Many adults may experience that uneasy feeling as they prepare to move and envision how they will settle in. Now, imagine that feeling from a child’s perspective. No matter your child’s age, moving can be tough for them. Consider the suggestions below to help them adjust to the idea and help you breathe easier.
Tips on How To Make Moving Easier For Your Kids
Before Packing
- Let your kids know as soon as you have decided to and when you’re planning on moving. This can be a tough transition for children, so it’s important to let them know as soon as you can. They will need time to adjust and to say goodbye to friends before moving to their new home.
- Aim to pack up as much of your children’s clothes, toys and essentials that you plan on bringing. It can be easier to do later as children tend to have fewer items than adults, but if you put it off children may cling to items that are not essential, as they will still be adjusting to the change of moving.
- If you’re using a moving company, make sure to call ahead and book your move at least a month in advance (eight weeks during the busy summer moving season) to secure the time that you would like. This will allow you plenty of time to plan out a moving checklist and will provide your children with plenty of time to say goodbye to friends.
During the Move
- Depending on the age of your kids, ask them if they want to participate in the moving process. Kids can be very helpful with doing smaller tasks to help out such as taping or labelling of boxes or organizing a moving essentials box that you can use on moving day.
- On the other spectrum, sometimes kids can be a handful during a move so it may make sense to schedule plans for them while the move is happening. Plan out a day of fun activities away from the move with family, friends or even a babysitter.
- No matter what situation you find yourself in, try to plan activities that are fun for your kids that don’t interfere with the move. Creating a box of items with colouring books, chalk, a soccer ball, empty boxes or even using spare bubble wrap can help keep your kids entertained during the moving process.
After the Move
- Take a tour of your new neighbourhood with the whole family. Take a walk or ride around on your bikes to scope out the parks and some of the local restaurants in the area. The best way to adapt to a new area is to explore it!
- If your new home is in the same city invite some of your old neighbours, family or friends to see your new place. This can help your kids feel more comfortable with the move while allowing for ample opportunities to schedule play dates for your children so that they don’t lose contact with their friends.
