Our children are cheerful and, normally, good sports, but planning a move while trying to make this a seamless transition for them adds an extra layer of stress to this taxing period. We never know how our kids are going to be affected by such a big change. They may not understand it or care—or they might get upset at the thought of leaving their friends behind.
While their reaction will greatly depend on the age and personalities of your children and the circumstances of your move, we guarantee your packing and planning will go a lot smoother if you follow these seven helpful tips:
#1: Get a Sitter
Moving is stressful enough as it is. Keeping an eye on your kids while you have to plan and pack can make progress almost impossible. Do yourself a favour and hire a sitter to watch the little ones while you tackle a room, so your attention doesn’t have to be in two places at once.
#2: Make a Game of It
The less scary moving is for children, the more likely they will accept it. Getting them used to the idea is easy if you turn it into a game. Give each child a single box and get them to pack everything in it that they simply cannot live without. Or ask them to pack everything in their room of a specific colour or shape. Offering prizes for the best packing job wouldn’t hurt your efforts either.
#3: Don’t Throw Their Stuff Away
Our kids hoard the strangest of things. As they accumulate cherished memories, they hold on to mementos or curiosities that we may not understand, but that we, nevertheless, should respect. When you do decide to go through your child’s room, make them part of the process so that you’re not throwing anything away that means something to them. If the number of keepsakes is starting to get a little carried away, gently explain that there simply isn’t enough room to bring everything with them and ask them to choose only their favourites.
#4: Pack While the Baby is Sleeping
If you have a newborn at home, getting anything done while they’re awake can almost feel like an exercise of taking two steps forward and one step back. From feeding to changing, babies obviously take up most of our time. When baby goes down for a nap, pack a few boxes with soft material items (i.e. towels, blankets, pillows) so that you don’t make too much noise.
#5: Send the Kids to the Grandparents on Moving Day
Depending on how far you’re moving, the big day may be less hectic if you send your children (and pets) from the home to their grandparent’s house. Your children may be upset or overwhelmed by everything that’s going on, so sending them somewhere familiar with people they love and trust may be less traumatic for them.
#6: Give Them Plenty of Notice
Don’t hesitate to tell your children what’s going on. They are a lot more perceptive than we know. Be honest about what’s about to happen. We don’t want them to be upset, but it’s important they understand why their home is about to change. Our advice: tell them way in advance so they can get used to the idea.
#7: Hire Professional Packers
Let’s face it, packing isn’t fun. No one likes to do it, but unfortunately, it’s a necessary evil. That’s why hiring professional packers and movers can be the best decision you will ever make. At Focus Moving Services Inc., we offer full and partial packing services. We’ll pack your entire home and safely transport your beloved belongings to your next destination. If you have kids and can use the extra hand, contact Focus Moving Services Inc. to request a free quote.
