Published: December 01, 2023

A Stress-Free Guide on How to Move With Kids

Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a challenging experience, especially when you have kids. Managing their emotions and routines and keeping them engaged during the moving process requires careful planning and patience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make moving with kids as stress-free as possible.

1. Prepare Your Kids

Before the moving day arrives, it’s essential to prepare your children for the upcoming changes. Here are some tips:

• Have an age-appropriate conversation with your kids about the move. Explain the reasons behind it and answer their questions honestly. Help them understand the move by openly discussing the reasons in a way that suits their age.
• Share information about their new home, school, and neighborhood to build excitement.
• Involve them in the moving process by letting them pack some of their belongings or choose the color of their new room.

2. Create a Moving Plan

Having a well-thought-out plan is crucial for a smooth move. Here’s how to do it:

• Set a realistic timeline for your move, taking into consideration your kids’ schedules and needs.
• Make a checklist of all the tasks you need to complete before and after the move, such as packing, choosing moving services, and notifying schools and healthcare providers.
• Allocate specific tasks to family members and involve your kids in age-appropriate responsibilities.

3. Pack Strategically

Packing well is essential to maintain your children’s comfort and routine:

• Start packing early, and label boxes clearly to find items easily in your new home.
• Pack an “essentials” box for each child with their favorite toys, clothes, and comfort items. Keep these boxes easily accessible during the move, ensuring quick access for their comfort and ease.
• Consider packing their belongings separately from the rest of the household items so you can quickly set up their rooms upon arrival. Separately packing their belongings will facilitate a smoother transition.

4. Maintain Routine

Kids thrive on routines, so try to stick to their daily schedule as much as possible:

• Keep regular meal times and bedtime routines intact, even during the move.
• Create a designated space for your children to play or relax while you unpack and set up the new home.
• Try to maintain their school and extracurricular activities to provide a sense of stability.

5. Safety First

Safety is a top priority during a move, especially when you have kids:

• Childproof the new home before your kids arrive. Check for hazards and secure cabinets and drawers.
• Keep cleaning supplies and dangerous items out of their reach.
• Supervise your children closely during the move, especially around heavy furniture and moving equipment.

6. Explore the New Neighborhood

Once you’ve settled into your new home, take some time to explore the neighborhood with your kids:

• Visit nearby parks, playgrounds, and attractions to help your children feel more comfortable in their new surroundings.
• Introduce them to potential playmates in the neighborhood to help them make friends.

Moving with kids can be challenging, but careful planning, open communication, and maintaining routines can make the transition smoother for the entire family. Remember that patience and flexibility are key to helping your children adjust to their new home. By following these tips, you can ensure a stress-free move and create a positive experience for your kids during this exciting time of change.

Need help moving? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle or call (206) 347-8201.