How to Prepare for Moving with Kids

01 Jul How to Prepare for Moving with Kids

Moving is one of the more stressful life events that most of us will encounter. It is important to think about how an upcoming move can impact our children as well.. The chaos of packing and saying goodbye to friends and the familiar comfort of their community can make children feel apprehensive and insecure. At the new home, children must adapt to a new neighborhood, a new school, and new friends.  Plainly stated, moving with kids can be a challenge.

It is a big change, but one that is easily navigated with the right plan. Here are several things you can do to make the moving experience a positive one for your children.

Involve Them From the Start 

Inform your kids as soon as you know you’re moving. Don’t surprise them at the last minute. In simple terms, let them know why you’re moving.  Whether you need more space, you’re relocating because of a new job, or any other reason, be sure to explain what they should expect.  The explanation will help ease any fear and confusion they might be experiencing. Ask them what they think, and try to answer their questions as thoroughly as you can.

Stay Positive

When explaining to your children about the decision to move, focus on the positive things. Let them know you’re moving to a bigger home or a warmer climate. Telling them that their new school will have more extracurricular activities can make them look forward to the move.  Your own attitude toward the move can have a significant impact on how your children handle the situation.

If you allow your kids to see that you’re stressed or sad about the relocation, your children will likely feel stressed and sad as well. Try to maintain a positive attitude, even when you’re feeling uneasy..

Start Packing Earlier 

When moving with children, it’s advisable to start packing several weeks earlier than you think is reasonable. When you are moving with kids, it can take you twice as long to pack up your home than you would without them. To avoid last-minute frustrations, be sure to start preparing the move much earlier.

If you decide it is worth it to have the professional movers do the packing for you, you can live your life normally up until the day of packing. Experienced movers can pack an entire house in a day or two depending on the size.

Move Day

Be sure to set aside any specialty items that you or your children will want to keep with you throughout the transition. The local moving crews work quickly and it will be important to designate any items you will be taking with you and would not like loaded onto the moving truck.

Items that you may want to take with you:

• Stroller
• Diaper bag and necessary essentials
• Stuffed animal or a few special toys
• Portable crib
• Clothing for yourself and children
• Important documents (birth certificates, school records, house records etc.)
• Cleaning supplies
• Few essential kitchen items

What to Do After the Move

Once you get to your new home, try to prepare your children’s areas, such as their bedrooms, before you turn your attention to the rest of the home. Try to maintain your normal schedule for meals and bedtime so your children can have a sense of familiarity. Children thrive in a routine environment.

Moving with young children can present many challenges. If you prepare well by keeping the above tips in mind, the process can be less stressful and even enjoyable for the whole family.

If you need assistance with any packing or moving services, please reach out to the San Antonio moving experts at Careful Movers. Our team of professionals are here to help!