If you’re moving to a new home, there’s a lot to think about — especially if you have kids. While it can be an exciting time for your family, it’s also normal for everyone to feel some nerves and apprehensions about the change. The good news is that there are things you can do to help your kids adjust to their new surroundings. Here are a few tips from experts to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Talk to your kids about the move ahead of time
Moving to a new home can be an exciting, yet daunting experience for many kids. That’s why it’s important to talk to your kids about the move ahead of time and help them prepare for what they can expect when they get there. It’s a good idea to explain the process step by step, discuss why you decided to move, and share any fun or special activities you’ve planned for their new place. Working together, you and your family can transition into your new home smoothly and create wonderful memories!
Let them help pack their belongings
Starting a new life in a different home can be exciting but overwhelming. As parents, it’s vital to help your children feel included in the transition and make them part of the process. One way to do this is to let your kids help you pack your belongings. Allow them to pick out their favorite things and help you place them into boxes—they’ll feel more connected to their journey and excited about the opportunities ahead. Plus, it’s an invaluable teaching moment and teaches your kids responsibility—it’s never too early for that!
Find out if there are any kids their age living in the new neighborhood
Learning more about the neighborhood your child will soon call home can be a valuable asset. If you can, try to find out if any kids their age living in the new area. Having peers their age share new experiences can help young ones to transition into a new home more quickly and easily. It’s also helpful for parents to introduce their children to potential friends before making the move so that they already have an understanding of who might be living in the same neighborhood. Doing this research ahead of time can make starting over feel a little less intimidating for your children.
Visit the new home together before moving day
Visiting the new home before moving day can give your kids a head start in feeling comforted and at ease with their upcoming transition. Provide them with a space to voice any questions, worries, or excitements they may have while they explore each room. By letting them explore and imagine what it will be like living within those walls, they’ll begin to feel a sense of ownership of the house. This visit can help facilitate connection and bonding with their new home before officially moving in.
Set up their bedroom first
When moving to a new home, it is essential to make your family, especially children, feel comfortable in their new environment. To ensure as smooth of a transition as possible, start by setting up your child’s bedroom first. It allows them to have their own space and gives them a place to unpack where they feel relaxed and secure. Additionally, providing this specific area for your toddler or teenager will help them adjust faster and create a sense of familiarity in the comfort of their bedroom.
Unpack their favorite toys and items first
Help your children adjust to a new home by unboxing their favorite possessions first. You can make the transition smoother by allowing them to have some of their prized items set up in their rooms or living area as soon as possible. It can help with the sense of familiarity that comes with having their favorite belongings with them, helping your children feel right at home right away. Consider packing a special ‘unpacking box’ that only contains items they consider important — things like toys, books, and plush animals will give them a sense of comfort and help ease the transition into a new house or apartment.
About Interest Moving & Storage
InterWest Moving and Storage in Idaho, Montana, Utah & Wyoming can assist you with relocation services — from packing to unloading. An agent of Atlas Van Lines, we have been delivering high-quality transportation services to our customers since 1956. Apart from residential packing and moving, we are corporate moving specialists and provide domestic and international corporate, art, and government relocation services. You can call our toll-free number (800) 877-1091 to book our assistance and get a free quote.
