They say that moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful things a person can experience in life. This is especially true for kids. But, why is that?

Well, think of all the memories, habits, the whole neighborhood, friendships, all of which you’re leaving behind; sometimes, forever. But besides just the emotional toll, there’s the logistical aspect (packing, organizing), And all of that while trying to keep your kids happy and comfortable. That experience can be a nightmare. However… it doesn’t have to be.

In this article, we’ll provide you with some very impactful strategies to help both you and your little ones power through that event.

7 invaluable tips to help you manage a stress-free move with children:

Help Kids Embrace the Change

For children, it’s easier to embrace the change when they feel involved. Start talking to your kids about the move in a way that they can understand, and try to explain to them what will happen in the following period and what to expect.

You can come up with some age-appropriate assignments and encourage them to help. For example, they can pack their toys or choose decorations for their new room.

Pack a “First Day” Box for Each Child

The first day in a new home can be confusing and chaotic, so having a “first day” box for each child ensures they have everything they need to feel comfortable. Things you can pack in their boxes are essentials like favorite toys, snacks, pajamas, and any comfort item they may want.

If they have their favorite blanket or stuffed animal, ensure they are within reach of their hand when you move into a new house. Having favorite and well-known items can help ease the transition and make the new space feel like home faster.

Take Advantage of Nap Times and Quiet Activities

To manage to finish the tasks that need uninterrupted focus, work around your little one’s schedule. Use nap times or quiet activities like coloring or watching cartoons for that type of chore.

Planning to pack and organize while they’re occupied will make the process feel less overwhelming.

Make the New Space Kid-Friendly

Before you start unpacking items for the kitchen and living room, prioritize setting up safe and familiar spaces for your children. Unpack and arrange their bedrooms first, so they have a place to play and rest while you work on other houserooms. If you have the space that will be their playroom, unpack and organize that space first.

You can even consider keeping some old furniture from the old home to create a sense of familiarity in the new room.

Hire Reliable Help

Managing movement, especially with young children, is much easier when you have extra support. Consider hiring professional movers to handle the heavy lifting and transportation. This will give you more time to focus on keeping your children calm and peaceful through the process.

If you're moving, for example, to or from Marietta (GA), search for more information about moving companies in Marietta GA. Use the same approach for any area where you currently are situated.

It’s important that they cater to families, offering services that make the experience smoother for everyone.

Make it Adventure

If your kids are old enough, let them explore the new neighborhood and find exciting places like parks, playgrounds, or ice cream shops.

Create a list of things to look forward to in the new area, which can help build joy and shift the focus from leaving the old home to discovering new possibilities.

Embrace Flexibility

The opposite of everyday taking care of children when routines are necessary, flexibility can be your best friend during a move. Allow yourself not to stress about last-minute changes and take some extra time to manage unexpected events. If something doesn’t go as planned, take a deep breath and know that it’s all part of the journey.

Conclusion

Moving alone is scary. Moving with your family, with your kids, is scarier. However, if you prepare well enough and rely on the seven above-written tips, you could come out of this, perhaps not unscathed, but with little to no bruises. You might even see the whole experience in a positive light.

When you involve your kids into the process (instead of keeping them on the sidelines, so that they aren’t in the way), you’ll help them transition smoothly into their new home. Simple things such as assigning little tasks to them, telling them to keep important toys and essentials accessible, or just talking to them as if they were on an adventure will help them live through this stress-free.

Embrace the change, and in a matter of days, your new house will feel like home.