Moving house can be tough for kids. With new friends, a new school, and a new home, it can also be stressful. Although most of the stress won’t fully hit home until the move has been completed, difficulties can arise as soon as the boxes start getting packed. 

Seeing their whole life getting boxed up can be understandably stressful for kids, so it’s important that you help them through the process by making it as easy as possible for them. Although this may seem hard, there are several easy ways that you can help your kids get through the stress of a move and get started on the right foot.

Here are 45 tips to help make the whole moving process much easier for you and your little ones!

1. Talk to Your Children About the Move:

Explain to your children what is happening, why you are moving, and what the new house and community will be like. This can help ease their fears and anxiety about the move.

2. Read Books About Moving:

Reading books about moving with your children can help them understand what to expect and feel more prepared for the move. Some good books to consider include “The Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day” and “Topsy and Tim: Move House.”

3. Involve Your Children in the Process:

Bring your children along to potential house viewings, allowing them to give their thoughts and opinions on what they like about the new house. Letting them preemptively pick out a new bedroom can also be beneficial. This can make them feel more excited and invested in the move.

4. Make a “New House” Wish List:

Have your children make a “new house” wish list with things they would like in their new home. This can help them take ownership of the move, increasing their excitement and anticipation for the big move-in day. 

5. Keep Your Children’s Routine as Consistent as Possible:

Try to maintain your children’s usual routines as much as possible, including mealtimes and bedtime routines. This will make the transition smoother for the whole family.

6. Pack a Special Bag for Each Child:

Pack a special bag for each child with their favourite toys, books, and snacks that they are responsible for taking care of during the move. This will give them comfort to know their favourite things are making the journey with them and keep them within reach. 

7. Enlist a Babysitter for Moving Day:

Consider getting the help of a babysitter for moving day if possible to keep your children occupied and safe while you are busy moving. This will be really helpful if you have young children and are unable to get help from friends and family.

8. Label Boxes Clearly:

Make sure to label boxes clearly so that you can quickly find your children’s belongings and set up their rooms in the new house. The faster you get them settled into their new space, the quicker they will feel at home.

9. Arrange for Childcare During the Move:

If your children don’t do well in fast-paced environments, arrange for your children to stay with family or friends during the actual move. This can help reduce their stress and keep them safe.

10. Take Breaks and Have Fun:

Make sure to take breaks during the move and have some fun with your children. Take a walk, have a picnic, or explore the new neighbourhood together. This also opens up for quiet moments to check in with the children, ensuring they aren’t struggling with their emotions alone.

11. Have a Plan for the First Night:

Have a plan for the first night in your new home, such as ordering pizza or setting up a movie night. This can help your children feel more comfortable and excited about their new home, giving them a reward at the end of a busy and highly emotional day.

12. Stick to Familiar Foods:

During the move, stick to familiar foods that your children enjoy to help them feel more comfortable and secure. Don’t rush into trying new restaurants near your new home, as too much change at once can be overwhelming. 

13. Keep Communication Open:

Keep communication open with your children throughout the move, and be available to answer their questions and concerns.

14. Throw a Goodbye Party:

Consider throwing a goodbye party for your children and their friends before you move. This can allow your children to say goodbye and feel more closure about leaving their old home.

15. Take Photos of Your Old Home:

Before you leave your old home, take photos of the house and yard with your children. This can help them remember their old home and community and feel more connected to their memories.

16. Maintain Connections with Old Friends:

Help your children maintain connections with their old friends by scheduling phone calls or video chats. This can help them feel less isolated in their new community.

17. Visit the New House and Community Ahead of Time:

If possible, take your children to visit the new house and community ahead of time. This can help them feel more familiar with the new surroundings and reduce their anxiety about the move.

18. Consider a Temporary Housing Option:

If you are moving long-distance and can’t move directly into your new home, consider a temporary housing option such as a hotel or short-term rental. This can help reduce the stress of the move for your children.

19. Get Settled in Quickly:

Once you move into your new house, try to get settled in as quickly as possible. Set up your children’s rooms first, and make sure that they have everything they need to feel comfortable in their new home.

20. Get Your Children Involved in Choosing Decorations:

Let your children help choose decorations for their new room, such as paint colours or bedding. This can help them feel more excited and invested in the move. It will also enable them to take ownership of either recreating a space similar to their old bedroom or taking the opportunity for a fresh start. 

21. Be Patient:

Moving can be a big adjustment for children, so be patient and understanding as they adjust to their new home and community. They will likely feel more comfortable and settled in their new surroundings with time and support.

22. Unpack Familiar Items First:

Unpack your children’s familiar items first, such as their favourite toys, games, and books. This can help them feel more comfortable and at home in their new space.

23. Set Up Their Room First:

Set up your children’s room first, including their bed and any furniture. This can help them feel more settled and secure in their new space.

24. Explore the New Neighborhood Together:

Take walks or bike rides around the new neighbourhood with your children. This can help them feel more familiar with their new surroundings and explore new places.

25. Get Involved in the Community:

Encourage your children to get involved in the new community, whether it’s through sports, clubs, or volunteering. This can help them make new friends and feel more connected to their new home.

26. Have a Family Night In:

Set aside time for a family night, such as a movie or family games night. This can help your children feel more connected to the family and their new home, creating new memories they will cherish.

27. Maintain the Children’s Routines:

Try to maintain your children’s usual routines, such as mealtimes and bedtime routines. This can help them feel more comfortable and secure in their new home.

28. Meet New Neighbors:

Encourage your children to meet new neighbours and introduce themselves. This can help them feel more welcome in the new community. Try baking some cookies or other sweet treats with your children and delivering these on a ‘Hello Tour’ of your neighbours. 

29. Decorate the New Home Together:

Let your children help decorate the new home by hanging up artwork or arranging furniture. This can help them feel more invested and connected to their new space.

30. Encourage Open Communication:

Keep communication open with your children about how they feel and any concerns about their new home, neighbourhood, and school. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about the new home, as they are likely to still have questions throughout the first few weeks or months of their new environment. 

31. Create a Countdown Calendar:

Make a countdown calendar leading up to the move date. This can help your children visualise the timeline and get excited about the move. You can mark special days and involve them in activities to prepare for the move.

32. Plan a Goodbye Tour:

Take your children on a goodbye tour of their favourite places in the current neighbourhood. Visit parks, friends’ houses, and favourite local spots to help them say farewell and feel a sense of closure.

33. Introduce Them to Their New School:

If your children are moving schools, try to arrange a visit to the new school before the move. Meeting teachers and seeing the new environment can help ease anxiety and build excitement.

34. Prepare a Moving Day Survival Kit:

Pack a moving day survival kit for each child with snacks, drinks, a change of clothes, and some favourite toys or activities to keep them occupied and comfortable during the move.

35. Host a Moving Sale Together:

Involve your children in a moving sale to declutter the house. This can be a fun activity that helps them let go of old items and understand the process of moving.

36. Set Up a Cosy Corner:

Upon arriving at the new house, set up a cosy corner with familiar items like blankets, pillows, and toys. This can provide a comfortable space for your children to relax while you unpack and organise the rest of the house.

37. Create a Moving Scrapbook:

Encourage your children to create a moving scrapbook with photos, drawings, and notes about the move. This can be a fun way for them to document the experience and preserve memories.

38. Have a Welcome Party:

Once you’ve settled in, host a small welcome party in your new home. Invite neighbours and new friends to help your children feel more at home and start building connections in the community.

39. Incorporate Familiar Sounds and Smells:

Use familiar sounds and smells, like playing their favourite music or using a diffuser with a familiar scent, to create a comforting environment in the new home.

40. Encourage New Friendships:

Help your children make new friends by arranging playdates or signing them up for local activities and sports teams. Building new friendships can help them feel more settled and happy in their new surroundings.

41. Keep a Positive Attitude:

Your attitude toward the move will significantly influence your children’s feelings. Stay positive and enthusiastic about the new home and the opportunities it brings. Your optimism will help them feel more excited and less anxious.

42. Allow Time for Adjustment:

Understand that adjusting to a new home can take time for your children. Be patient and supportive as they navigate their feelings and adapt to the new environment.

43. Plan Fun Activities in the New Area:

Research fun activities and places to visit in your new area. Plan outings and adventures that your children can look forward to, helping them associate the new home with positive experiences.

44. Stay Organised:

Keep important documents, favourite toys, and essential items easily accessible during the move. Being organised can help reduce stress and ensure that your children have what they need during the transition.

45. Give Them Responsibilities:

Assign age-appropriate responsibilities to your children during the move. This can give them a sense of control and involvement, making the experience more positive.

Let Guardian Handle Your Move for a Stress-Free Experience

Moving house can be daunting, but with Guardian by your side, you can rest assured that you’re in capable hands. Our goal is to help you settle into your new home quickly and comfortably, allowing you to focus on the exciting new chapter ahead.

For more information on how we can assist with your move or to get a personalised quote, please get in touch with us today. Our friendly and professional team is here to answer any questions you may have and to help you plan a hassle-free move. Contact us now to learn more about our domestic removal services and how we can make your moving day a success!

FAQs About Moving House with Kids

What is the best age to move with kids?

The best age to move with kids can vary depending on individual circumstances, but many experts suggest that younger children, particularly those under six, may adapt more easily to a move. This is because younger children are generally more focused on their immediate family and are less attached to their surroundings and social networks. However, older children and teenagers may find moving more challenging due to established friendships and routines. Regardless of age, involving children in the moving process and addressing their concerns can help ease the transition.

Is moving house good for kids?

Moving house can have both positive and negative effects on kids, depending on how the move is managed and the reasons behind it. On the positive side, moving can expose children to new experiences, cultures, and opportunities, potentially fostering adaptability and resilience. It can also provide a fresh start and improve family dynamics if the move is to a better neighbourhood or home. However, moving can also be stressful for kids, leading to anxiety and sadness, especially if they are leaving behind familiar surroundings and friends. Clear communication, maintaining routines, and involving children in the process can help mitigate the negative effects and make the move a positive experience.

Can moving home a lot be traumatic for kids?

Frequent moves can be traumatic for kids, especially if they involve significant social, educational, and family disruptions. Constantly changing environments can make it difficult for children to form stable friendships and feel a sense of belonging. It can also lead to feelings of insecurity and instability. To minimise the impact, it’s important to provide strong emotional support, maintain as much consistency as possible in daily routines, and help children stay connected with friends and family members. Counselling or support groups can also be beneficial for children who struggle with frequent moves.

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