PODS has put together some Top Tips if you’re Moving House with Kids in tow…
Embarking on a house move with kids? Buckle up for a journey that requires a bit of extra planning and a lot of patience! 🏡
Here are some top tips to make moving with little ones a smoother, more enjoyable experience:
1. Start the Conversation Early: Open communication is key. Start talking to your kids about the move well in advance. Explain the reasons for the move, and answer their questions honestly. This helps them feel involved and eases potential anxieties.
2. Create a Positive Narrative: Turn the move into an exciting adventure. Highlight the positive aspects of the new home and the opportunities it brings. Encourage your kids to envision their new room and the adventures awaiting them in the new area or town.
3. Involve Them in Packing: Make packing a family affair. Let your kids pack their belongings (with supervision). This not only keeps them occupied but also gives them a sense of control over their things. Consider creating a “special box” for each child where they can pack their most treasured items.
4. Maintain Routines: Amidst the chaos of packing, try to stick to your regular routines as much as possible. Familiarity provides comfort for kids, so keep mealtimes, bedtime rituals, and other routines consistent to create a sense of stability.
5. Pack an Essentials Box: Prepare a box of essential items for each family member, including the kids. This box should contain favourite toys, comfort items, a change of clothes, and any necessary medications. Keep these boxes easily accessible for the first day and night in your new home.
6. Explore the New Area Together: Before moving day, explore your new neighbourhood with the kids. Visit local parks, schools, and attractions to familiarise them with their new surroundings. This helps build excitement and reduces the unfamiliarity of the new environment.
7. Set Up the Kids’ Spaces First: Upon arrival at the new home, prioritise setting up the kids’ rooms. Having familiar and comforting spaces ready for them will provide a sense of stability amidst the still-unpacked chaos.
8. Arrange for Childcare on Moving Day: Moving day can be hectic, and having kids underfoot may add stress. If possible, arrange for childcare on moving day. This allows you to focus on the move without worrying about keeping the kids entertained and safe.
9. Be Patient and Understanding: Moving can be stressful for everyone, including kids. Be patient and understanding if they show signs of anxiety or frustration. This in turn, allows them to express their feelings and you can reassure them that it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions.
10. Plan a Celebration: Once you’re settled into your new home, plan a small celebration with the kids. It could be a pizza night, a movie marathon, or a trip to their favourite ice cream shop. By celebrating the move, this reinforces the positive narrative and helps create happy memories associated with the new home.
Moving with kids requires a blend of organisation, communication, and flexibility. By incorporating these tips, you can transform the moving process into a family adventure filled with excitement and positive anticipation.
If you need a hand organising the moving process or want to show your kids a cooler, better and easier way to move house (especially if you need storage too), then why not try PODS? We guarantee PODZilla will get the kids talking!