Moving house is touted as one of the most stressful life events, but the stakes get even higher when you throw kids into the mix!
Young children or teenagers, each age group poses its own unique set of challenges when faced with such a major upheaval. Whether you’re moving across town or interstate, the logistics of relocating a whole family can be daunting and emotionally charged.
How do you make the transition as painless as possible for the little ones, and perhaps even turn it into an adventure? Here’s your comprehensive guide to moving house with kids, ensuring your family’s transition to a new home is as smooth as it can possibly be.
Do the Groundwork
Preparation is key when it comes to moving with children. Without the proper groundwork, you could be setting yourself up for a move that not only feels haphazard but also causes anxiety for your kids. From open communication to practical planning, these are the steps you should take before you even put your first box together.
Communicate early and often, telling your kids about the move as soon as it feels right for your family. Use age-appropriate language and make them feel part of the decision-making process if possible. If they’re old enough, show them the new home and neighbourhood before the move to help them get accustomed to the idea.
Plan and Research Together
Involving children in the planning can make them feel more in control of the situation. From picking out new furniture or deciding on the colour of their new bedroom walls, giving them a say in some of the decisions can be empowering.
Learning about the new place can also make it seem less scary. Research the local schools, parks, and activities that might interest your children. Share this information with them to build excitement about the new environment.
Managing the Big Day
The day of the move will likely be hectic, but with careful planning and some contingency plans in place, it doesn’t have to be a complete meltdown. To minimise disruptions, pack your children’s items last. Keep some favourite toys, books, and clothes separate so they’re easily accessible. Label these boxes clearly and keep them within reach during the move.
Create a moving day schedule, factoring in meal and nap times if you have younger children. Stick to the plan as closely as possible to maintain a sense of routine. Plan for plenty of snacks and diversions to keep your kids occupied and in good spirits. Bring out their favourite movies, colouring books, or tablets to keep them entertained during the downtime.
Childcare on Moving Day
Having someone look after your kids while you oversee the move might be a good option, especially for little ones. It’ll keep them safe and give you the ability to focus on the logistics without little feet underfoot.
Settling into the New Home
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s time to establish a new normal. This phase is about creating a warm, welcoming space that feels like home from the get-go. Unpacking the kids’ belongings first and setting up their rooms before anything else will ensure they have familiar items in their new space can provide comfort and help the whole family settle more quickly.
Maintain Routines
Re-establish familiar routines as quickly as possible. Bedtime stories, breakfast routines – whatever anchors your day, stick to them in the new home to provide a sense of normality.
Encourage Expression
Moving can stir up a lot of emotions in children. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and express themselves through drawings or writing. Keeping the channels of communication open is essential during this adjustment period.
Meet the Neighbours
Take time to explore the new neighbourhood with your children. Point out the local playgrounds, ice cream shops, or libraries. Familiarising them with their new environment will make them feel more at home.
Once you feel settled into your new home, organise to meet with your new neighbours! It’s a great way for your children to make new friends and for you to establish a support network in your new area. You could also participate in local events and join community groups. This can introduce your children to potential new friends and provide them with a support network.
If your kid is at an age where they can participate in local activites, consider enrolling them in local sports, music, or arts activities. This will give them a chance to pursue their interests and meet like-minded peers.Arranging playdates with children in the neighbourhood or potentially form their new song is a great way for your kids to make new friends and start feeling like a part of the community.
Moving house with kids is a monumental task, but with a foresight and patience, it’s entirely manageable. Keeping the lines of communication open, involving your children in the process, and focusing on the positive aspects of the move are the pillars of a successful transition. Remember, every box packed and unpacked is one step closer to a fresh start for your whole family.
Ready to make your next move? Let us help you get there.