Moving with kids can come with certain challenges, not just logistically but mentally as well. Moving away from their home, and possibly their school, neighborhood, and friends, can create stress around an already busy and emotional time.
However, there are some things that you can do to make the transition easier for the whole family. Here are some tips for moving with kids that can help your big day go as smoothly as possible for everyone.
Why Moving Can Be Difficult for Kids
Moving can be hard for kids since they are leaving the familiar for the unknown, probably for the first time in their lives. The comfort of home, the relationships they’ve built with friends and neighbors, and maybe even the familiarity of their school and teachers will be left behind.
Experts say that one thing that really triggers stress in kids when moving is that they don’t have control over their environment or what’s happening around them. Because of this, it can be helpful to include them in different aspects of the move and talk to them throughout. They don’t have control over the situation itself, but they can contribute and take control of some aspects like:
Packing up their room
Saying goodbye to teachers and classmates
Gathering information to stay in touch with friends
How to Talk to Children About the Move
Moving with kids can go more smoothly if they know what to expect. Early in the process, sit your kids down and explain to them what’s happening. The earlier you start preparing them, the more time they have to adjust. Tell them what’s going to happen, what they can expect, and what their new home or town might be like.
Let your kids know that they can come to you at any point if they have questions, concerns, or fears about the move. Communication can be key when moving with children, especially if you keep them informed and positive.
Packing and Planning Tips for Families
If you want to know how to make moving fun instead of scary for your kids, include them in the process. As with any move, start going through your things to decide what goes to the next house, what you can donate or sell, and what goes in the trash. Let your kids take the lead when it comes to their rooms and belongings. Let them label their boxes and decorate them, too.
Make a plan for moving day. Older children can be helpful, but moving with a toddler or baby can be tricky. It might be easier to arrange for childcare on the day of your move, so book it early and let your child know what’s happening.
Keeping Routines Consistent During the Transition
Kids thrive on routine. Keeping their daily routines as consistent as possible during and after the move can help them feel safe, calm, and relaxed. Even though things are busy leading up to the move, do your best to make sure that some things stay the same:
Family meals and time together
Nighttime routines and a set bedtime
Regular times for homework and extracurriculars
Having routines to fall back on, especially after the move, can help your children feel secure as they get settled into their new environment.
Helping Kids Settle into a New Home and Neighborhood
Help your child settle into their new home by letting them make some decisions, like decorating their room, helping to unpack and decide where to put things such as books and toys, and setting up an area to study and learn.
As a family, take time to walk the neighborhood and get to know the surroundings. You can find their new school, introduce yourselves to neighbors, and get your child involved in extracurriculars they enjoyed in their old neighborhood to establish routines and meet new friends.
MASH Movers. Your Full-Service Movers in Austin, TX
If you’re looking for residential movers in Austin, MASH Movers has you covered. There’s no job too big or small for us, and we get it done with a smile each time. We love what we do just as much as we love welcoming new neighbors into the city we proudly call home. Reach out to MASH today to learn more about our moving services in Austin and get a free quote!