Moving can be stressful for anyone, but it can be extra challenging if you’re moving with your family; especially when you have young kids. Here are some tips to reduce stress and make moving with children easier.
Downsize Your Stuff When Moving With Your Family
If you’ve been living in your home for a while, you’ve probably accumulated many things. Before you begin packing, go through each room and sort belongings into “keep,” “donate,” and “trash” piles. Cleaning makes packing less frustrating because you know you’re only packing items you need or want.
To make a move easier, downsize furniture. Unless you have a piece you love, give away or sell furniture you don’t want to bring with you.
Tips for Moving: Get the Whole Family Involved
When you’re moving with your family, get everyone involved in the process. Give your kids moving-related responsibilities. They can sort their toys and clothes and decide what to get rid of. Depending on their ages, they can also pack and label items to prepare for the move. If you’re having a yard sale, get the kids to help with pricing and selling items.
Scope Out Schools Before Moving With Your Family
Changing schools, especially in the middle of a school year, can be difficult for kids. Before you move, take the kids to check out their new school and meet the teachers if possible. Visiting will allow them to familiarize themselves with a new environment, which hopefully means less shock on the first day.
Involve Your Kids in the Process
Help your kids feel like a part of the move by involving them in decorating their new bedrooms. Let them pick out décor by selecting paint colors, furniture, and rugs. If it’s not too far away, take them to see the new house before you officially move in so they can get familiar with the space.
Tips for Moving: Arrange to Move Your Pet
Prepare your pet for the move by organizing safe travel plans, pet-proofing your new home, and lining up a vet in your new city. On moving day, hire a pet sitter or have an older child watch the animals in a spare bedroom. Loading the truck and moving boxes in and out of the house can upset a pet. Create a calm, safe space where family members can spend time with the cat or dog as the truck is packed.
Moving with your family is exhausting work, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be exciting to explore your new location together. Take it step-by-step and try to involve everyone in the process. Before you know it, you and your family will feel comfortable and settled in your new home.
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