Moving houses is already a challenging task, but when you add kids into the mix, it can feel downright overwhelming. Between managing their emotions, keeping their routines intact, and ensuring all your belongings are packed safely, there’s a lot to juggle. However, with the right approach, the entire process can be much smoother and even enjoyable.
Here are some practical tips to make moving with kids less stressful.
Talk to your kids about the move
Children thrive on stability, so moving to a new home can be unsettling for them. It’s important to talk to them about the move as early as possible. Explain why the move is happening and what they can expect. Keep the conversation positive by highlighting the exciting aspects, such as a bigger room, a nearby playground, or new friends to make.
Encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings. Younger children might not fully understand what moving means, so using books or storytelling can help them grasp the concept better. If they seem anxious, reassure them that it’s normal to feel this way and that their favourite toys, furniture, and belongings will be coming along.
Get them involved in the packing process
One way to make moving less stressful for kids is to involve them in the packing process. Giving them small, age-appropriate tasks makes them feel like they have some control over the situation. Let them pack their own toys, books, and clothes in a special box and allow them to decorate it with stickers or drawings. This makes the move feel like an adventure rather than something being forced upon them.
For older children, you can make a game out of decluttering by challenging them to sort out items they no longer use. Not only will this make packing easier, but it also teaches them valuable lessons about organisation and decision-making.
Maintain routines as much as possible
While it might be tempting to put everything on hold while preparing for the move, sticking to your children’s daily routines can help them feel more secure. Try to keep meal times, nap schedules, and bedtime rituals as consistent as possible. This familiarity will help them adjust better to the changes happening around them.
If you’re moving a long distance, plan for breaks along the way and ensure they have their favourite snacks, toys, or comfort items to make the journey smoother.
Arrange childcare for moving day
Moving day can be chaotic, and the last thing you need is to worry about keeping an eye on your kids while managing movers, packing boxes, and finalising logistics. If possible, arrange for a friend, family member, or babysitter to take care of them for the day. This allows you to focus on the move while ensuring your children are safe and entertained.
If childcare isn’t an option, set up a designated play area in a safe part of the house with some of their favourite toys, books, and activities to keep them occupied while you handle the move.
Use storage solutions to reduce clutter
Moving with children means you already have a lot on your plate. Instead of dealing with an overwhelming number of boxes in your new home, consider using moving and storage services to temporarily store non-essential items. This will help keep your new space organised and make unpacking more manageable.
For families downsizing or relocating to a smaller home, storage solutions can also be beneficial in keeping sentimental items safe without cluttering your new living space. Whether it’s baby gear you plan to use in the future or seasonal items you don’t need immediately, a reliable storage service can make the transition much easier.
Set up the kids’ rooms first
Once you arrive at your new home, prioritise setting up your children’s rooms before tackling the rest of the house. Having their familiar bed, toys, and comfort items in place will help them settle in faster and feel at home.
If possible, let them have a say in how they want to arrange their space. Allowing them to make small choices, like choosing where their bed or desk should go, can give them a sense of ownership over their new environment.
Give them time to adjust
Moving to a new home is a big transition for children, and it might take some time for them to feel comfortable in their new surroundings. Be patient and offer plenty of reassurance. Take them on a walk around the neighbourhood, introduce them to new play areas, and encourage them to make friends.
If they seem sad about leaving their old home, validate their feelings while also helping them focus on the positives. Remind them that home is not just about a place but about the people they share it with.
Let us help make your move easier
Moving with kids doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right support. At Buddy Mover & Storage, our storage solutions and house movers in Singapore help make your transition smooth and hassle-free. Whether you need extra space to store your belongings or a trusted team to handle the heavy lifting, we’re here to assist. Get in touch with us today and let’s make your move a seamless one!
