Key Tips on Moving House with Kids: Making Relocation Smoother for the Whole Family
Moving house is a big event for anyone, but when you add children into the mix, it can become an even more complex and emotional undertaking. For kids, a move often means leaving behind familiar surroundings, friends, and routines, which can lead to anxiety, confusion, or even sadness. However, with careful planning and a sensitive approach, you can make moving house a positive and exciting adventure for the entire family.
At Around About Removals, we understand that a successful move isn’t just about transporting boxes; it’s about transitioning lives. That’s why we’ve put together these key tips on moving house with kids, designed to help you navigate this period with empathy and efficiency.
1. Involve Them Early and Often
One of the most crucial tips on moving house with kids is to involve them from the very beginning. Surprises can be unsettling, especially for children.
- Announce the Move Positively: Frame the move as an exciting new chapter. Talk about the new opportunities, parks, or rooms they might have.
- Show Them the New Place (If Possible): If feasible, take them to see the new house or neighbourhood. Let them pick their new room or imagine where their toys will go. If not, use photos or videos.
- Discuss the “Why”: Explain the reasons for the move in age-appropriate terms (e.g., “Dad got a new job,” “We need more space,” “We’ll be closer to Grandma”).
2. Maintain Routines as Much as Possible
Kids thrive on routine. During the chaos of moving, try to keep their daily schedules as consistent as you can.
- Bedtimes and Mealtimes: Stick to regular bedtimes and mealtimes.
- School/Daycare: Keep them in their current school or daycare for as long as possible before the move, and enroll them in their new one promptly.
- Playtime: Ensure they still have dedicated playtime, even if it’s amidst boxes.
3. Let Them Help and Have a Role
Giving children age-appropriate tasks empowers them and makes them feel like a valuable part of the process. This is a vital tip on moving house with kids.
- Decorate Their Own Boxes: Let them draw on boxes for their toys or clothes.
- Pack Their “Essentials” Bag: Have them choose a special bag with their favourite toys, books, comfort items, and a change of clothes for the moving day and first night.
- Help Pack Their Room: Let them help decide what goes where in their room, giving them a sense of control.
4. Address Their Feelings and Be Patient
Children process change differently than adults. It’s normal for them to feel a range of emotions.
- Encourage Open Communication: Ask them how they’re feeling about the move and listen actively to their concerns. Validate their emotions.
- Acknowledge Sadness: It’s okay if they’re sad about leaving friends or their old home. Acknowledge these feelings without trying to dismiss them.
- Patience is Key: Expect some regressions in behavior or increased emotional outbursts. Be patient and reassuring.
5. Plan for Moving Day Itself
Moving day can be chaotic. Having a plan for the kids is crucial for a smooth experience.
- Childcare Options: If possible, arrange for childcare on moving day. Grandparents, a trusted friend, or a babysitter can take them to a park or for an outing, keeping them safe and entertained away from the moving activity.
- Snacks and Entertainment: If they’re present, have plenty of snacks, drinks, and quiet activities (books, tablets) to keep them occupied.
- Designate a Safe Zone: In the new house, set up their room or a specific area first, with their comfort items, so they have a familiar space.
6. Make the New House Feel Like Home Quickly
Once you arrive, focus on creating familiarity and comfort in the new environment.
- Unpack Their Room First: Prioritize setting up their bedroom. Make their bed, put out their toys, and arrange their space to feel welcoming.
- Explore Together: Discover the new neighbourhood, local parks, libraries, and shops as a family.
- Connect with the New Community: Help them make new friends. Look for local playgroups, sports teams, or community events.
7. Choose the Right Moving Partner
A significant factor in a stress-free move, especially when moving house with kids, is selecting a reliable moving company. At Around About Removals, we aim to minimize disruption and handle the logistics, so you can focus on your family.
- Professional Services: Our expert teams handle packing, loading, and transportation with care, reducing your workload. Learn more about our comprehensive house moving services Pretoria. Even if you’re moving from Pretoria, these principles apply!
- Efficiency: We pride ourselves on efficient, timely moves, helping you settle faster. Read about how we make moving stress-free in Cape Town, as the same dedication applies to all our operations.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your belongings are in capable hands frees you up to be present for your children during this big transition. We even offer affordable moving companies Pretoria options to help with budgeting.
Moving house with kids requires extra empathy and planning, but by involving them, maintaining routines, and choosing a reliable moving partner, you can turn a potentially stressful event into a positive and memorable family experience. For any queries regarding your move, don’t hesitate to get a quote from Around About Removals today.
