Are We There Yet? 3 Tips for Moving with Kids
As much as you love your children, repeated cries of "Are we there yet?" are enough to drive any parent to the brink of frustration. Moving with kids can be challenging, but a little preparation can go a long way in keeping everyone calm and collected. Here are three ideas to help make your move smoother—and we’ve added two more tips to round out your toolkit.
1. Prepare Your Kids for the Move
Talk to your kids about the move. Encourage them to ask questions, express their fears, and even mourn the loss of their friends and their home. Then let them help plan and throw a party to say 'goodbye' to their home, neighborhood, and friends. It's a great way to provide closure to this part of their lives.
2. Leave the Kids' Rooms Until Last
Don't be in a hurry to pack up your kids' room. Preparing to move is chaotic and stressful. You don't want to add to your child's stress by removing everything that's familiar. By leaving your child's room until last, they have a comforting refuge amidst the commotion.
Consider your kid's possessions as important as your coffee maker. After all, you wouldn't pack it until the last minute, would you? Keep everything as normal as possible for your kids and you'll reap the benefits! By starting your trip to your new home with calmer children, you're already a step ahead of the game.
3. Bring These Essentials on the Trip to Your New Home
Your kids will feel less stressed during the move if they have some favorites at hand. Give each child a small bag or backpack of their very own. Let them pack it with their favorite books, small dolls, trip-friendly toys and activities, etc. If there's still room, a favorite small blanket or pillow can provide a little extra comfort during the journey.
A bag like this will help keep a child occupied even if you do the unthinkable and pack all of their toys before the last minute. Oops!
4. Involve Your Kids in Packing (Where Appropriate)
Giving your children a role in the packing process can help them feel more involved and less anxious about the move.
- Let them pack a “special box” with their most treasured items.
- Allow them to decorate the box with markers or stickers so it’s easy to spot upon arrival.
- Show them how their belongings will be safely packed to reassure them that their favorite toys and books will make it to the new home unharmed.
This simple task can turn the stress of moving into an adventure for your kids.
5. Plan Fun Breaks During the Move
If your move involves a long drive, plan regular stops to stretch, play, and refuel.
- Look up parks or playgrounds along the way for a quick play session.
- Pack snacks and drinks to keep hunger and grumpiness at bay.
- Bring an audiobook or playlist with their favorite songs to keep the car ride entertaining.
These breaks aren’t just for your kids—they’ll help you recharge as well.
Let the Professionals Help
It takes skill, the right materials, and a lot of practice to pack up an entire home and have it all arrive at its destination unscathed. Letting professional packers deal with all the boxes, packing, and moving gives you more time to prepare your children for this huge change in their lives. Contact CT Moving and Storage for your free estimate today.
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