Moving is not a simple task. Unlike some of your other simple home-improvement projects, the list of things that need to be accomplished before and during your move adds up. But, it’s important to remember that the process of moving is overwhelming to everyone, including your kids.
For some kids, moving to a new home can potentially be a very scary experience; the change in environment and routine is hard on a child. That’s why it’s important to make the transition as easy on them as possible.
In order to make sure your kids are enjoying the new adventure rather than worrying about the big changes happening in your family, we’ve put together a few helpful hints to make the house hunting and moving process easier on everyone.
Get Them Involved
Parents.com says that the best way to get your kids excited about the upcoming move is to get them involved.
If they’re old enough, sit down at a family meeting and come up with a mutual wish list for your next home.
- Does everyone agree that a bigger backyard is an important item on the wish list?
- What about a pool, an indoor playroom, or a finished basement where the kids can hang out?
You of course can manage their expectations, but getting them involved in the conversation will get them excited. Child Mind says that communication is very important in stressful situations like moving.
When you’re ready to start looking at properties, bring them along and see what they think of the space. Be careful to not make any promises about which room will belong to whom, but touring the house with the kids will make them feel like a part of the decision, and it’ll be helpful for you to get their opinions on the space—even if it’s just about the ugly wallpaper!
Take the Opportunity to Redecorate
One of the best things about moving to a new place is starting over with your décor.
Let your kids know that they can create a whole new design for their space, whether that means new paint colors, rearranged furniture, or even new window treatments to match their bedspread.
Depending on your budget, you can really go crazy here, so make sure that things don’t get out of hand!
- Flip through a couple of magazines and pick out some fun items that you can add to your child’s room without too much money spent, like beanbag chairs or new throw pillows.
Letting them make the decision when it comes to pattern and color will have them looking forward to the day your old house is in the rearview mirror of the moving truck.
Break-In Visit
After you’ve purchased or officially rented your new home, take the kids over for a visit before you move.
- Maybe order a pizza or the kids’ favorite dinner, and eat while hanging out on the living room floor.
Making memories in your new space is important, and if your kids have something to hold on to as they unpack their boxes, like pizza and a movie on the iPad night that day, it can make them feel more comfortable.
On Moving Day
If your kiddos are on the younger side, it’s best to ask Grandma or a babysitter to look after them on the day of the actual move. You’ll have a lot going on, and there will be a lot of heavy boxes flying around—it’s important for them to be safe and stay out of the way!
But, before the movers arrive, sit down with your child and pack up his or her favorite toys into one very important box. Make sure the box is clearly marked and will arrive at your new home before bedtime!
The First Night
The first night in a strange place can be daunting for a child, but if you unpack their box of favorite toys before bedtime, he or she will feel much more at home.
- Child Mind says it’s important to begin establishing a routine immediately; make sure that bedtime and story time still occur in the same order as always.
Stay in Touch
Throughout the process, remind your kids that they’ll still be able to keep in touch with their friends from their old neighborhood, and once you move, stick to it.
Schedule a playdate or a phone call when you can, and make sure that when your child asks about their old neighborhood friend, you make an effort to get them in touch. They may gradually grow apart after a while, but that initial change from seeing a person every day to practically never can be stressful on your child.
Establishing ties to the new community is important, but it’s also vital that ties to the old community remain intact so as to not cause your child to feel isolated.
Whether you’re moving local or long-distance, Highland Moving Vancouver is here for all of your moving needs in the Mainland and the surrounding areas! When you’re ready to plan the move, call us for a quote at 604-581-2300.