How to Make Moving Home with Children Stress-Free: Tips and Advice

Moving home is a significant life event, and when children are involved, it can bring unique challenges. Leaving behind friends, schools, and the home they’ve grown up in can feel overwhelming for kids. But with the right approach, you can help your children adjust to the move and even turn it into a positive experience. Here’s a guide to navigating a house move with children, from preparation to settling into your new home.

Engage Your Children in the Moving Process

Getting your kids involved in the move can help them feel more in control and excited about the transition. Assign them age-appropriate tasks, such as packing their own toys or organising their belongings. For younger children, encourage them to pack up their own rooms, as this can create a sense of ownership and comfort.

When it comes to moving day, make sure your child’s belongings are among the last items loaded onto the moving truck. This way, they’ll be easily accessible once you arrive at your new home. Additionally, consider taking your children on a fun outing in the new area before the move. Visit local parks, playgrounds, or family-friendly spots to help them feel more connected to their new surroundings.

Give Them a Chance to Say Goodbye

Moving out of the area? Help your children say farewell to their old home and friends in a meaningful way. Organise a small leaving party where they can take photos with friends and create lasting memories. Encourage them to make a scrapbook with pictures of their current home, their bedroom, and favorite neighbourhood spots.

Ensure they exchange contact information with their friends, including phone numbers and email addresses, so they can stay in touch after the move. This reassurance can make the transition less daunting.

Managing the Move on the Big Day

If possible, arrange for friends or family to look after your children on moving day. If childcare isn’t an option, keep them informed about what’s happening and involve them with simple tasks like ensuring all their toys are packed and loaded.

For toddlers or infants, have essentials like high chairs, diapers, and feeding equipment on hand to maintain their routine throughout the day. Familiarity can help reduce stress for young children during a busy move.

Helping Children Adjust After the Move

Once you’re settled into your new home, make it a priority to unpack your children’s belongings first. Setting up their room and surrounding them with familiar items will help them feel more at ease. Stick to established routines, especially around mealtime and bedtime, to provide a sense of normalcy.

It’s common for children to feel emotional a few days after the move, once the initial excitement and chaos have settled. Spend time exploring your new neighbourhood with them, especially visiting parks or playgrounds. Look for local baby or toddler groups where your children (and you) can make new friends and connections.

Packing Tips for Your Children’s Toys

Packing toys for the move requires special care to ensure your child’s treasured items stay safe:

• Drain liquids: Empty squirt guns, bath toys, and anything else that holds water to avoid spills.
• Secure messy items: Seal paints, markers, or other potentially messy items in plastic bags.
• Use padding: Wrap toys in paper or bubble wrap and fill empty spaces in boxes with soft items like towels.
• Protect fragile toys: Wrap delicate items with extra care.
• Let them personalise: Allow your child to label or decorate their own toy boxes. This will make unpacking more fun for them.

Unpacking their toys first at the new house can ease the adjustment period and make your child feel at home right away.

Moving With Kids Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Relocating with children may feel overwhelming, but with proper planning and consideration for their emotions, the process can be smooth and even exciting. Keep them involved, stick to routines, and help them embrace their new environment.

For expert help with your move, contact MNM Removals. We specialise in family moves, ensuring a stress-free experience for parents and children alike.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote:
📞 0800 0025 543
🕗 Monday–Saturday: 8 AM – 8 PM

Let MNM Removals make your family’s transition to a new home as smooth and enjoyable as possible!