Moving is a significant life event, and for children, it can feel like their world is being turned upside down. From leaving behind their friends and school to adjusting to a new environment, the moving process can be overwhelming. However, with the right approach, you can make the experience not only manageable but also enjoyable for your kids.
At Deluxe Moving & Storage, we understand that family moves—especially during the colder months—present unique challenges. Whether you’re moving across town, from one Ontario city to another, or even further across Canada, our goal is to help make your transition as smooth as possible, both for you and for your little ones.
In this blog, we’ll provide tips and strategies for making moving with kids an easier and more exciting experience. From involving them in the packing process to turning the move itself into an adventure, there are plenty of ways to minimize stress and ensure that your children feel involved, engaged, and excited about the move.
1. Understanding the Emotional Impact of Moving on Children
Before diving into tips for making the move easier, it’s essential to understand the emotional impact moving can have on kids. Children, especially those under the age of 12, are often deeply affected by changes in their environment.
A. The Stress of Leaving Behind Familiar Spaces
One of the biggest sources of anxiety for kids is the idea of leaving behind their home, friends, and school. These elements form a significant part of their emotional world, and moving to a new place can feel like a loss. This is particularly true for young children, who may not yet understand the concept of moving as an exciting new opportunity.
B. Fear of the Unknown
Children thrive on routine and familiarity. Moving, particularly to a new neighborhood, can evoke fear and uncertainty about what the future will look like. For kids, a new school, new friends, and even unfamiliar streets can seem intimidating. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and provide reassurance throughout the process.
C. Changes in Family Routine
A move often disrupts a child’s daily routine, which can lead to feelings of insecurity. From changes in mealtimes to a different bedtime schedule, kids may struggle with the unfamiliarity of it all. Parents should make it a priority to create a sense of stability amidst the chaos.
2. Involve Your Kids in the Moving Process
One of the best ways to alleviate your child’s stress and help them feel engaged with the move is to involve them in the process. Kids feel more comfortable when they know what’s happening and when they have a role in the move. Here are some ways to get them involved:
A. Create a Family Moving Plan
Sit down as a family and talk about the move. Explain the timeline, what’s happening, and why it’s happening. Let your children ask questions and voice their concerns. This open communication allows them to process their emotions and feel heard.
- Tip: Use a fun, colorful calendar to mark the days until the move. Kids love countdowns, and it will give them a tangible sense of how long until they settle into their new home.
B. Let Them Pack Their Own Belongings
Give your children ownership of their personal items by allowing them to pack their own boxes. This not only helps them feel more in control of the situation, but it also allows them to take an active role in the transition. If you’re moving during the colder months, it can be helpful to have kids pack warm clothes and special winter accessories like scarves and mittens that will make them feel cozy and comforted in the new home.
- Tip: Make packing fun by providing colourful boxes, stickers, or markers so they can decorate their boxes. This can add excitement to the process and give them something to look forward to.
C. Organize a Goodbye Party
Before leaving your current home, consider organizing a small farewell party for your kids. Invite their friends over for a playdate or a farewell pizza party. This will give them the chance to say goodbye to their favourite people and make the transition feel less abrupt.
- Tip: If a physical party isn’t possible, consider a virtual goodbye via video call, especially if your child has a close-knit group of friends.
3. Keep Things Fun During the Move
Moving itself can be stressful, but you can make it more fun and engaging for your kids by turning some aspects of the process into a game or adventure. Here are some ideas to keep your kids entertained and distracted from the stress:
A. Create a Moving Day Scavenger Hunt
On moving day, consider creating a scavenger hunt for your children. Give them a list of things to find, like their favorite stuffed animal, a special book, or a family photo. They’ll have fun hunting for these items amidst the moving chaos, and it can provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Tip: Consider giving them a small prize or treat after they complete the hunt. It can be a fun little way to reward their participation.
B. Play “I Spy” or Other Car Games
If you’re moving a long distance or making a road trip to your new home, car games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions” can help pass the time and keep kids entertained. These classic games are easy to play, don’t require any materials, and can be a great bonding experience for the family.
- Tip: If you have a long drive ahead, bring along snacks, music, and plenty of entertainment to make the trip enjoyable for everyone.
C. Pack a “Moving Day Survival Kit” for Your Kids
Prepare a moving day survival kit filled with fun activities to keep your children occupied. Include items like colouring books, puzzles, snacks, small toys, or electronic devices. This will ensure they have something to do while you’re busy unpacking or coordinating the move.
- Tip: Include familiar items like a favourite blanket or stuffed animal to provide comfort and security for your child on moving day.
4. Setting Up Your New Home
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, the next step is making it feel comfortable and familiar as quickly as possible. There are several ways you can help your children feel settled in their new environment.
A. Set Up Their Room First
Children often feel most at home in their own space, so setting up their room as soon as possible is key. Unpack their favourite toys, books, and belongings first, so they can feel a sense of ownership over their new space.
- Tip: If you’ve packed some of their favourite decorations or bedding, set those up as soon as possible to help them feel more comfortable in their new room.
B. Familiarize Them with Their New Neighbourhood
Take time to explore your new neighbourhood with your kids. Go for a walk around the block, find nearby parks, and identify fun places they can visit, such as ice cream shops or local libraries. Knowing what’s nearby will give them a sense of security and excitement about the new area.
- Tip: If you’re moving during colder months, dress warmly and take a short walk to get a feel for the neighbourhood. This is also a great opportunity to introduce your kids to new local landmarks.
C. Create Routines Quickly
Routines provide a sense of stability, which is particularly important for children. Try to keep meal times, bedtime routines, and schoolwork schedules consistent, even as you unpack and settle into your new home.
- Tip: Consider creating a new “welcome” tradition in your home, such as a special family dinner or a bedtime story, to make the space feel like home.
5. Moving in the Colder Months: Extra Tips for Winter Moves
Moving during the colder months can present its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to making sure your kids stay comfortable and safe. Here are some tips to ensure your move goes smoothly in chilly weather.
A. Layer Up and Keep Warm
Winter moving requires extra layers! Make sure your kids are dressed warmly in coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. Have a designated “moving day” bag with all the warm clothes you’ll need for the journey.
- Tip: Pack extra blankets and pillows in the car for added comfort, especially if you’re traveling for a longer distance.
B. Prepare for Weather-Related Delays
If you’re moving during a snowstorm or icy conditions, be prepared for delays. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, and allow for extra time in case of bad weather on moving day.
- Tip: Stay in communication with your moving company, especially if they’re traveling a long distance. Deluxe Moving & Storage can help coordinate any necessary changes to the moving schedule, ensuring everything goes smoothly.
C. Make the Home Cozy Right Away
Once you’re in your new home, start by heating it up and making it cozy. Set up a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the first few hours to help your kids feel comfortable right away.
- Tip: Use space heaters in rooms that need an extra touch of warmth and make sure blankets and warm drinks are readily available.
6. Focus on the Positive: Reinforce the Adventure
Throughout the moving process, remind your kids of the positive aspects of the transition. While the idea of leaving behind friends and familiarity can be difficult, frame the move as an exciting adventure.
- Tip: Talk about the new experiences, new friends, and new places they’ll discover. Help them see this as a fresh start and an opportunity for growth.
Let’s Get Moving
Moving with kids can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding and exciting experience with the right approach. At Deluxe Moving & Storage, we understand the complexities of family moves, and our goal is to make the process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for everyone involved.
By involving your children in the moving process, keeping them engaged with fun activities, and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home, you can help make this change a positive one. Remember, with a little planning, patience, and creativity, you can turn a potentially stressful experience into an opportunity for family bonding and adventure.
Ready to take the stress out of moving with kids? Contact Deluxe Moving & Storage today for expert support and moving solutions that make a difference.
📞 Phone: (519) 212-3023
📧 Email: rick@deluxemoving.ca
🌐 Website: www.deluxemoving.ca