Moving With Kids: 8 Things I Wish I Knew


Moving With Kids: 8 Things I Wish I Knew

Planning a move with children can feel exciting and overwhelming at once. With a little structure and kid-centered communication, you can reduce stress and turn the change into a confidence-building adventure. Use these practical tips to prepare your family, protect routines, and keep what matters most.

Before You Announce the Move

Kids thrive on predictability. A clear, calm explanation helps them understand what’s changing—and what isn’t. Set the tone, leave space for questions, and stick to simple, concrete examples.

Have a simple plan for the conversation

Use short, specific language: “We’re moving to a bigger place. Your bed, toys, and clothes come with us. The walls and floors stay here.” Share what will stay the same (pets, bedtime, favorite weekend traditions) and when things will happen. Invite questions and answer honestly.

Comes With Us Stays With the House
Toys, books, clothes, beds, decor Walls, floors, windows, light fixtures
Kitchen items, photos, keepsakes Built-ins that are part of the home
Outdoor toys, planters (if movable) Landscaping and permanent features

Involve kids early

Give age-appropriate jobs: label boxes with stickers or drawings, pack stuffed animals, make a list of “must-haves” for the new room. If possible, show photos or visit the new neighborhood, school playground, or local library to build familiarity.

Lead with calm, positive energy

It’s okay to acknowledge your own mixed feelings, but keep the overall tone confident. Kids mirror your cues; steady optimism helps them feel safe and capable.

Keep What Matters, Let Go of the Rest

Moves are easier when you honor your family’s story. Capture the memories you want to hold onto, then make space for what’s next.

Save meaningful pieces and memories

Create a photo book or video tour narrated by your child. Let kids take pictures of favorite corners, neighbors, and hangouts. Keep a small, special item (a doorknob, growth chart marks on trim replicated on a board, a beloved garden stone) if feasible.

Protect familiar routines

During packing and after move-in, keep anchors steady: bedtime steps, weekly rituals, family meals, library day, pancake Sunday. In chaotic weeks, routine is reassurance.

Connection Eases the Transition

Goodbyes and new hellos are easier when kids feel connected to their people and places.

Maintain relationships

Schedule playdate “see-you-laters,” make a contact card with addresses and numbers, and set regular video call times. Encourage kids to write postcards from the new neighborhood. Connection reduces the sense of loss.

Make the move feel like an adventure

Turn packing into a game (“race to fill the book box”), let kids choose paint colors or a new rug, and plan a neighborhood “treasure hunt” for the first week: find the playground, best hot chocolate, and nearest library.

After You Arrive

First impressions matter. A few early wins can make the new house feel like home fast.

Focus on your child, not just the boxes

Unpack the kids’ rooms first so they have a cozy retreat. Recreate familiar setups (nightlight, favorite blanket on the same side of the bed). Take short breaks to explore—one new spot a day keeps momentum up and meltdowns down.

  • Display familiar photos on day one.
  • Set up a “comfort basket” with books, snacks, and a favorite toy.
  • Plan low-stress dinners (picnic on the floor counts).

What to watch next

Some bumps are normal. Watch for sleep disruptions, clinginess, stomachaches, or school resistance. These often ease as routines stabilize. If intense reactions persist beyond a few weeks, check in with a pediatrician or counselor for extra support.

Key takeaways at a glance

  • Prepare a simple, honest script and invite questions.
  • Let kids help pack and make choices about their new space.
  • Preserve routines and meaningful memories.
  • Keep friendships alive with scheduled check-ins.
  • Unpack kids’ rooms first and prioritize connection over perfection.

FAQs

  • When should we tell our kids we’re moving?
    Share when the plan is firm and you have a basic timeline. For younger kids, a few weeks’ notice is usually enough; older kids may need more time.
  • How do we handle items that can’t come with us?
    Offer choices: take photos, make a mini scrapbook, or “say goodbye” with a short ritual. Emphasize what will be waiting in the new space.
  • What should we set up first in the new home?
    Kids’ bedrooms and basic kitchen items. Comfort and food reduce stress fast.
  • How can we help our child stay in touch with friends?
    Swap contact info, schedule regular calls, and plan a visit or virtual hangout soon after move-in.
  • What if my child refuses to pack?
    Break it into small jobs, set a timer, and offer choices (“pack books or art supplies first?”). Praise effort, not speed.

If you do one thing, script your announcement, set up your child’s room first, and keep core routines steady—those three steps turn a big move into a manageable, even exciting, family milestone.

Popular Posts

Avoid Moving Day Surprises Understanding Your Estimate

Image
Avoid Moving Day Surprises: Understanding Your Moving Estimate Moving can be a stressful experience, and few things add more anxiety than a final bill that's significantly higher than your initial quote. A recent HelloNation article featuring moving expert Mike Marschhausen of Fit 2 Move Moving Services in Portsmouth sheds light on why estimates change and how understanding them can prevent unwelcome surprises on moving day. The Truth About Moving Estimates One of the biggest misconceptions about moving estimates is that they are always fixed. In reality, not all estimates work the same way. Some are based on detailed inventories that remain constant, while others can fluctuate depending on various factors like weight, time, or unexpected conditions encountered during the move. Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates: Know the Difference The core distinction lies between a binding and a non-binding estimate. Knowing which type you have is crucial for managing your expectations and...
Read more

West Ham eye England U21 star Charlie Cresswell

Image
West Ham Reignite Interest in England U21 Star Charlie Cresswell West Ham United have reportedly reignited their interest in promising England U21 defender Charlie Cresswell, with a potential move back to English football being eyed for 2026. The 23-year-old center-back has been making significant waves since his transfer to Toulouse in the summer of 2024, catching the attention of several clubs across Europe. Cresswell's Impressive Journey from Leeds to Ligue 1 Stardom Charlie Cresswell's career trajectory has seen a remarkable acceleration since he left Leeds United. After playing just 135 minutes of Championship football for Leeds, he made an immediate impact upon his move to Toulouse in the summer of 2024, becoming an instant starter for the French side. Over the past 15 months, he has accumulated 46 appearances for the club, demonstrating his versatile capabilities by scoring seven goals and providing three assists. His consistency has been a highlight, featuring in ...
Read more

How Much Does Moving Cost

Image
How Much Does Moving Cost? Plan Your Relocation Budget Moving can be an extensive project, whether you're relocating across the city or the globe. Understanding the potential costs is crucial for a smooth transition, as expenses vary significantly based on distance, the volume of your belongings, and whether you opt for DIY or professional services. This guide will help you budget effectively for your next move. Understanding Your Core Moving Expenses A move can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to well over $10,000. The two primary factors influencing this wide range are the distance you're moving and the quantity of items you need to transport. Average Moving Cost by Distance Long-distance moves are naturally more expensive than local ones. Here's a general breakdown: Type of Move Average Cost Local Move (less than 50 miles) $1,400 Lon...
Read more

Expert box packing tips for a smooth move

Image
How to Pack Moving Boxes Like a Pro Moving season is here, and a great move starts with great packing. With a few pro-approved habits, you can prevent damage, speed up loading and unloading, and make day-one setup easier. Use these expert tips to pack boxes safely, efficiently, and without stress. Below you’ll find what to do before you pack, how to fill and label boxes the right way, mistakes to avoid, and a quick comparison of box options to help you plan your move with confidence. Context Packing well is more than playing box Tetris. The goal is twofold: protect your belongings and keep each box structurally sound for stacking. When boxes are too heavy, half-empty, or labeled poorly, you risk crushed cartons, broken items, slow unloads, and sore backs. Professional movers consistently recommend decluttering first, sizing boxes to the load, eliminating empty space, and labeling sides—not tops—for faster, safer moves. Key points 1) Declutter before you box Sort what you ...
Read more