Tips on moving with Children

Besides all the travel we do we are also gearing up to move home in the New Year, some thing which is stressful on it's own but with kids it can be pretty hard work. This will be our eldest sons forth move so we have certainly learnt a few things along the way and thought I would share that with people who are going through the same thing.

It's well known that children often do better with routine and familiar surroundings, this however shouldn't put you off moving though but rather just something to be aware of and making sure your child has the stability they need to feel secure. As long as they feel secure children are really adaptable and will adjust quickly no matter if the move is near or far, for a job transfer, a bigger home or renovation project keep things transparent.

Involved in the Move

Regardless of what situation precipitates the move, children should be involved in the moving process. Children benefit from having a timeline and a role to play in the process so they don’t feel left out or completely out of control of their own lives.

Start with identifying who will be facilitating the move. If you'll be working with a moving company, like Allied Van Lines, then walk them through the process and what that means in terms of packing up their own favourite toys and clothes into boxes. Tell them what will happen when the movers come, or when friends and family arrive to help with the move.

If you will be going to a new part of the country, take them online to show them around the new area. You can also print out a map and plan out stops along the way of places they would like to see. It may add a few hours to the trip, but it will be worth it to make the experience an adventure rather than a dreaded chore.

Tasks for Children

The type of tasks that each child should be expected and encouraged to do will depend primarily on the age of the child. Younger children will need tasks that they can do with a parent while older children and teenagers can be given independent tasks.

Children of all ages should be encouraged to go through their belongings and create three piles; one for the move, one for donation or sale, and one for recycling or throwing away. It makes no sense to move clothing and belongings which the child has outgrown, but deciding what should and shouldn’t go needs to be done with the help of the child, as though their things are being taken without they will have some input on where they go. Allowing them to have at least partial control in this aspect can be very beneficial.

Timeline

Creating a timeline for exactly when everything will happen and putting it on a calendar will make it easier for children to conceptualize the upcoming move. Put all of the important dates on a calendar that is displayed in the child’s room. Each night, take the time to cross off the current day so they have a visual representation of how much time is left before the day of the move and the individual tasks they will be performing.

For older children who will have more tasks to complete, a daily agenda may be more helpful. They can use the monthly view to cross off the days and the daily views for individual tasks which need to be completed on specific days.

To make the process more fun for younger children, consider purchasing or printing out a calendar that has one of their favourite cartoon or movie characters. You can also use stickers to countdown the days rather than crossing them off on the calendar.

If you are planning a family move than I have previously shared a post about several ways to help children adjust to their new environment. The main thing is to keep your children involved, don't let them feel like they are out of the process and try and prove a calm environment no matter how stressful it becomes.

Prioritising you

It's also really important as parents especially if your moving as a couple, to not let the stress get the better of you and your relationship. You need to be a team when it comes to decisions and not let the stress cause arguments or disagreements. We all know that moving is one of the most stressful things we go through and if you are feeling the strain it may be important to get some counselling just so you know your both on the same page. 

Associated Post