Make Moving Easier for Kids

Let’s face it – when you move with a little child, they can be a little thrown off or even actively against the move. If you know you need to sell your house and move, one of the best things you can do is ask them how they feel and let them talk about it – your best strategies will respond to their actual concerns about moving. However, if you want to make moving easier overall, these strategies could help kids get on board and take ownership of the move.

Read books about moving

One of the ways to ease into a move is to read books together about characters that move to a new place and have a good experience. These stories help the child get used to the idea instead of finding out that it is happening at the exact same moment that they learn about what moving really is. For older kids who know about moving, you might skip this step but still have a conversation about stories or characters they’ve encountered who have moved.

Ask the children to daydream about the changes to make moving easier for kids

As they start talking about the move, your child might have some big feelings, but having them create a daydream or a mental image of what the move will be like can really help you. If they’re worried about making friends, having a scary or worse room, or some other element, their daydreams will show you what is on their minds. You can also gently nudge positive elements into the daydream, such as finding new ways to do things they enjoy.

Have them make games out of packing and other tasks

If you can get your kids involved in the physical actions of the move, that can be a good thing. Some children love stacking boxes, choosing what will go in what box, or being the designated tape dispenser. Of course, gauge their unique interest, but any tasks that they can be in charge of are likely to give them a sense of ownership that will come in handy as the move progresses. 

Give them creative control over their rooms

When it comes to furniture location, wall decoration, and even things like paint color and curtains, it may help to let the child make their own choices. While many children resist change, there’s something about having creative control that brings them around. Their new room may look different, but if they make the choices, it makes things easier. 

Have exploration days where children get one-on-one time with parents

When you arrive, if your child is having trouble adjusting, it can be great to explore the new neighborhood and area with one-on-one time. Your real estate agent may have insight into family-friendly places to go. 

Find a new playground, a new cafe, or a new destination related to a hobby, like a gaming shop to make moving easier for kids. These outings give the child connection to you, where they can express any challenges they’re having, all while finding the positives in the new place. This combination can be a powerful way to win them over even as they may miss elements of your old place of living.