Get Your Kids Ready for a Move

Infants and Toddlers

Generally, the younger the baby, the easier the move will be for the little one. It’s important to note that infants and toddlers can pick up on stress before, during, and after your move. Make sure you spend adequate time with your kids during the process, so they will feel the security of a routine and consistency from you. You’ll want to think about areas where they can take naps and where you can store necessary food during any of the transitions of the move. Also, think about comfort items like security blankets and favorite stuffed animals that shouldn’t be packed by the movers and should stay with you to make the transition easier for your kids.

Preschool-age Kids Preschool-age kids will have a little bit harder time adjusting during a move. Moving might initially be exciting for a child this age. But confusion can create stress for your child. Try to answer all the questions they have in the most basic terms possible and get ahead of situations by explaining things early. It also helps to stay positive about the move in front of them. A parent can set and influence the tone of the move when their child is younger. Because preschool-age children comprehend moving on a deeper level than toddlers, it can be a good idea to involve them in little ways in the moving process by trying to get their opinions on the new house and neighborhood.

School-age and Teenage Kids Moving with grade school or teenage kids makes the change a little easier to explain, but brings its own set of challenges. By this time, kids often have friendships that will be interrupted by the move, and this can be a source of anxiety or sadness. Involve your kids in a meaningful way throughout the moving process. Children in grade school enjoy projects, and you can appeal to this side of their development by giving them tasks to help with the move. Ask your teenager if they would like to design their room in the new home. Make sure you check in with them regularly and encourage emotional expressions. Suggest using a diary or journal. Also, you can host a goodbye party to give your children a fun atmosphere for a not-so-fun undertaking while they say (at least a temporary) goodbye to their friends.