The big day is just around the corner: it’s almost Moving Day for your family! But before you can enjoy the fruits of your brand new space, we know how stressful moving can be, especially when you have kids. With all the logistics to worry about, it’s a surprise not everybody goes nuts.
However, don’t go on mistaking that you’re the only one experiencing stress as the parent and the adult in charge. Moving can be complicated for anyone regardless of age, and that includes your kid. As adults, it’s easier for us to adapt than the young ones. What might be a breath of fresh air to the parents can be a source of stress for children. Change is a bit tougher for kids, and saying goodbye to their friends and the space they’ve grown up in can take a toll on them.
That said, learning how to prepare them for a big move goes a long way for their well-being and yours. When you include your kids in the process, you help them navigate this scary yet exciting adventure ahead.
To get you and your kids ready for the big moving day, we’ve listed some tips that can help your family better adjust for this milestone ahead.
1. Give them a heads-up
As a kid, nothing could be worse than waking up to see all your stuff gone while mountains of boxes are loaded on a moving truck. Moving isn’t always a pleasant surprise to children, so let them know as early as you can. Once you have finally decided about the move, talk to them and explain why. There’s no point in keeping it a secret, and doing so might harm your relationship, so best to be transparent.
An early talk with the kids will give them ample time to adjust and to say their goodbyes. On a more positive note, you’ll also be able to get them pumped up for the move early on as you give them a picture of your future home life.
2. It’s all about teamwork
When we talk about getting your kids involved, we don’t mean making them carry heavy boxes. Get them involved in the process by asking them to pack their stuff such as toys, plushies, books, and school items. Or better yet, ask them questions about how they’d like their new space to be. Talk about possible themes, decorations, wall colors, and more. In short, brainstorm with your kid.
3. Give them a little taste
Kids tend to be more cautious toward anything new. After all, they’ve still got a lot to figure out about the world. And much like when we’re served with new dishes, kids would also appreciate having a small taste of their future space before moving. Pre-paving your children for the move will help lessen their anxiety. You can start this off by visiting the neighborhood and enjoying the fun activities they can do there. Visit the local park. Dine in a local restaurant. From there, you can ease them into the new house by going with them for visits, showing their new room, and laying the vision for the house no matter how silly it is (a giant swing in the middle of the room? Sure, why not!). Remember, it’s a crucial transition for them, so take it slow and enjoy the process together.
4. Make it a fun experience
Hopefully, when moving day arrives, your kids aren’t just left watching you or the movers load and unload boxes. Instead, find ways to make this a memorable day for them. You can assign them light tasks like looking after the family pet, or you can hand them a kid-friendly camera and have them document the move. They’d surely appreciate seeing those photos one day when they decide to look back on the memory of the place they once called ‘home’.
Moving day or not, let kids be kids
It’s easy to be caught up in all the stress of moving. However, don’t forget to be extra patient and understanding toward your kids on moving day. Don’t expect adult behavior from them, and don’t reprimand them if they do something you dislike during the big day. If they get upset about it, don’t invalidate their feelings. Instead, listen and provide comfort. Take this as an opportunity to strengthen your bond.
Once the move is complete and your kids are tucked safely in their new bedrooms, pat yourself on the back and maybe open a bottle of wine — you deserve it for a job well done. Time to enjoy your new home!
