Let us be honest moving with kids is work. It is one of those things you can do when you are not feeling like changing jobs or doing your taxes. Moving with kids is like solving a puzzle with lots of boxes, tape and heavy things to carry.
As a storage company we see families moving with kids all the time. We see parents who're very tired and stressed. We also see families who make moving with kids fun. Moving with kids can be fun.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with packing and your kids are running around you can calm down. You can do this. This is a guide to help you move with kids without getting much stressed.
1. Understanding How Kids Feel About Moving with Kids
Kids feel differently about moving with kids than adults do. For you moving with kids is about a house, school or job. For kids moving with kids is a change in their life.
Before you start packing try to understand how your kids are feeling. It depends on how old they're. Moving with kids can be scary for kids.
* The Plan for preschoolers Keep their routine the same until the minute. If they take a nap at 1:00 PM stop packing at 1:00 PM. Spend time with them. Make moving with kids easier for kids.
School-aged kids are worried about making friends and liking their school. They are scared of getting lost in the area. Moving with kids can be hard for kids.
* The Plan: For school aged kids-Talk to them. Show them pictures of the house, school and park. Give them information so they feel more comfortable. Make moving with kids fun for kids.
Teenagers feel like they are losing control. They are leaving their friends and the life they know. They might get angry or quiet. Moving with kids can be tough for kids.
* The Plan: Do not ignore their feelings. Let them know you understand it is hard. Give them some control over the move like letting them design their room. Make moving with kids easier for kids.
2. Take Care of Yourself First is true for moving with kids. Kids can feel your stress and anxiety. If you are calm they will feel better too. Start packing a little each day and try to stay calm. Make moving with kids less stressful for kids.
3. The First-Night Box for Kids
Pack a box for each child with things they need for the night. Keep it in the car not in the moving truck. Imagine arriving at your home tired and realizing your childs toy or book is packed away. It is an idea to have a box with essentials like clothes, toothbrush and favorite toys. Moving with kids can be easier for kids.
What to Put in the First-Night Box for Kids
* A few changes of clothes and underwear
* Basic things like toothbrush, toothpaste and kids shampoo
* Their favorite comfort item, like a blanket or stuffed animal
* A handheld game with charging cables
* Snacks that they like
* A pillow to make their new bed feel like home
4. Make Packing a Game for Kids
Packing with kids can be like trying to shovel snow while it is still snowing. Of fighting them make them part of the process. Give each child a box to decorate and fill with their things. This will give them a sense of control. Keep them busy. Use colors to label boxes and rooms. Assign a color to each childs room. Put a matching sticker on their door. This way they can help the movers by pointing out which room the boxes belong in. Moving with kids can be fun for kids.
5. How a Storage Unit Can Help with Moving with Kids
Using a storage unit can make your move easier. You can pack things ahead of time store them in the unit and reduce the mess in your house. Make it easier to unpack. You can unpack your house in steps bringing in boxes one at a time on weekends. This will make the move less overwhelming. Moving with kids can be less stressful for kids.
6. Moving Day Tips: Get Some Help with Moving with Kids
On moving day hire someone to take care of your kids. This will give you peace of mind. Allow you to focus on the move. If you cannot afford to hire someone create a "Safe Zone" in the house. Choose a room where the movers cannot go and set up a play area with toys and movies. You and your partner can take turns watching the kids in the zone. Make moving with kids easier for kids.
7. First Things First at the New House with Kids
When you arrive at your home set up your kids bedrooms first. Put their beds together make their beds and set up their nightlights. This will make them feel safe and comfortable in their room. Moving with kids can be fun for kids.
The Adventure Awaits for Kids
Something will go wrong during your move with kids. A box will break a toy will get lost someone will get upset. Remember, this move is a part of your childs childhood. They will forget about the stress and hard work. They will remember how you handled it. They will remember the fun times like having a picnic building a fort with boxes and playing in the backyard. Your kids will remember the move and how you made it fun for them. Moving with kids can be an adventure, for kids.
