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Tips for Moving with Kids

Moving to a new home is stressful for the entire family, but it can be especially stressful for kids. Depending on the age of your kids, they might not even understand what moving means in the first place. This can lead to a lot of stress, frustration, and confusion that doesn’t go away after moving day. To make sure your kids have an easy transition into their new home, follow these important tips for moving with kids!

Moving with Kids

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Have a Genuine Conversation

A lot of parents make the mistake of not talking to their kids about the move before it happens. They assume the child is too young to understand and that it’ll be easier to just experience it as it comes. This can leave kids, even younger kids, feeling confused and disoriented. Instead, have a genuine and open conversation with your kids early on. Depending on how young they are, you should begin talking with them about the move a few months in advance, if possible.

Explain why you’re moving and what that will mean to them. Maybe it will mean they have their own room or they’ll be closer to a beloved grandparent. Be sure to explain that things will still remain the same even if they’re in a new home. Your child will still have their favorite toys, their parents, and school. Give your children a chance to ask questions, if they have any, and continue the conversation as the moving date moves closer and closer to make sure they understand.

Involve Kids in Packing

Kids might not always be the most organized, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make great packers! Involve your kids in the packing process so they feel more a part of the move. Sometimes parents can get swept up in their own stress and forget that their kids are feeling many of the same things. Instead, involve your kids in every step of the process. Older kids can go through their things to find what they do and do not want to take with them. Younger kids can help put toys in boxes. There’s always something they can do!

Choose the Best Moving Company

While it’s possible to handle the move yourself, this isn’t ideal if you have kids. Moving day is stressful enough, and it’s best to have a professional company manage this for you. Keep everything running smoothly and quickly from start to finish by hiring a reputable moving company. Platinum Furniture Removals recommends using families use a moving company to cut down on time spent between one home and the next and to keep things safe throughout the processes. A moving company can also recommend the best way to pack your things and prepare for the big move.

Keep Necessities Close

After a move, there’s usually a period where you’re still unpacking and you don’t know where a lot of important things are. This time can be especially stressful for children who are used to things being a certain way. Keep their necessities close by packing them their own suitcase to keep nearby during the move. You’ll want to include things like clothes for the next few days, familiar PJs, a beloved blanket, and toys. These things might seem small, but they’ll help your child understand that this home is also a familiar place.

Lead by Example

You’re allowed to feel stressed and even sad after a move. You’ve left your old home behind, and things at your new home might be different. You might be starting a new job or leaving friends in a different city. It’s certainly okay to feel these things, but remember your children are watching you. In a confusing time, your children are looking up to you for cues on how to behave. If you’re reacting in a negative way, they probably will too. While it’s okay to express your emotions to your kids, try to keep things positive. Let your kids know, “While I’ll not be living close to my friend Sally, I still get to see her every month!” These small actions are reassuring to kids and will help them realize this new move is a good thing.

Moving with Your Family

Moving alone is stressful enough, but it’s even more complicated when you involve kids. Regardless of whether your kids are younger or older, they’ll feel stress when they’re forced to pack up their belongings and move into an unfamiliar place. Try to keep their perspective in mind. Maybe they’ve lived in the old home for their entire lives! This new place is scary at first, and it might take time to feel like a home of its own. Be patient with your children and set a positive example! They’ll be adjusted in no time!

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