The only way to make the journey easier is by planning it better.
Moving to a new home is one of life’s most significant events, but for families, it can be even more challenging.
And when children are involved, the complexity increases.
Whether you're relocating across town or moving abroad with kids, the emotional, logistical, and physical hurdles can be stressful.
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Did you know that nearly 40 million people in the U.S. move every year?
Of these, a significant portion involves families with children. Studies show that moving is one of the top stressors for parents, right behind events like death or divorce.
The American Psychological Association found that 60% of families report an increase in stress when moving, primarily due to the disruption of routines and emotional strain on children.
Children, especially younger ones, are deeply affected by change.
For them, moving means leaving behind their friends, school, and the only home they’ve ever known, which can be an emotionally jarring experience.
In fact, research suggests that frequent relocations can impact a child’s psychological well-being.
Children who move multiple times are at a higher risk of developing anxiety, depression, and a sense of instability.
It’s clear that the process of moving with kids can have a significant emotional and psychological toll, not just on the parents but on the children as well.
But here’s the good news: while moving with kids can be difficult, it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience.
With the right strategies in place, moving with kids can become an opportunity to bond as a family and embrace change together.
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Emotional Impact of Moving with Kids
Before discussing the tips and tricks for a smooth relocation, it's important to understand the emotional and psychological impact moving can have on children.
Children’s attachment to their home, neighborhood, and school can make moving especially difficult. For some kids, this transition can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of loss.
Research indicates that frequent moving can have long-term effects on children. In fact, studies show that kids who experience multiple relocations are more likely to face emotional challenges like depression later in life.
A report by Psychology Today mentions that "children of parents who moved frequently were found to experience higher levels of stress and feelings of instability."
It's essential to recognize that how you handle the move plays a pivotal role in minimizing these effects.
Start Early and Have Open Conversations
One of the most important aspects of moving with children is communication.
The sooner you start talking about the move, the better.
Even if your children are too young to fully understand the situation, bringing them into the conversation is essential.
Age-appropriate discussions help them process the change and give them a sense of control.
For younger children, you can explain the move by talking about the positives—perhaps you’re moving closer to a park they’ll love or a school that will be a great fit.
For older children, allow them to express their feelings and address any concerns they may have.
You might hear questions like, “Why are we moving?” or “Will I still be able to see my friends?” Answering these questions honestly while keeping the tone positive helps children feel heard and reassured.
Here’s a tip: Use a Moving with Toddlers Checklist to prepare them for the process in simple steps. Even toddlers can be involved in picking out their favorite toys to take with them. It creates a sense of participation in the move.
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Involve Your Kids in the Process
Kids feel more secure when they are part of the process.
When possible, get them involved in activities like packing, unpacking, and organizing.
Let them pack their own clothes and toys so they know exactly what to expect.
If your kids are old enough, you could even give them tasks like labeling their boxes or creating a fun "moving with kids" packing party.
By doing this, you'll not only make them feel included but also teach them valuable organizational skills.
Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible
As we mentioned earlier, kids thrive on routine. To ease the transition during the move, try to keep daily rituals as consistent as possible.
This might mean keeping the same bedtime story or morning routine or eating meals together at the same time.
A sense of normalcy is essential for emotional stability, especially when everything around them is changing.
If you’re moving abroad with kids, maintaining routines can be especially helpful in unfamiliar environments. This stability helps them feel grounded and less overwhelmed by their foreign surroundings.
Plan Ahead for the Move and Stay Organized
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of tasks involved, but a little planning can go a long way.
First, make a checklist of all the things you need to do—plan, pack, and stay ahead of time.
Start with decluttering your home.
Sort through toys, clothes, and other items you no longer need and involve your kids in this process.
When packing, keep all your children's essential items in one box or bag. You'll need clothes, toiletries, and their favorite toys or books, which are easily accessible to make their transition easier.
Use Packing and Labeling Strategies
Packing can be stressful, but there are ways to streamline it when moving with kids.
Begin by labeling all boxes clearly. Use color-coded labels for each room to simplify unpacking.
This method is especially helpful if you have multiple children, as each child can have their own color code for their belongings.
Also, pack a "first-night bag" for your kids. This bag should include things like pajamas, a change of clothes, and their favorite stuffed animal or blanket.
Need Advice on Packing for a Family Move? __ Explore Our Packing Tips for Families and make sure everything is ready for the big day.
Plan for Childcare on Moving Day
Moving day can be chaotic, especially with kids in tow. If possible, arrange for a trusted family member or babysitter to look after your kids on the day of the move.
This way, you can focus on managing the logistics of the move without constantly worrying about your children’s safety and well-being.
If you’re moving with toddlers or younger children, this might be even more important.
Looking for More Tips on Moving with Kids? __ Check Out Our Guide to Moving with Children
Set Up a Comfortable Space for Your Kids
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, the first thing to do is set up your children’s room.
It’s important to create a familiar, safe space where they can feel at home quickly.
Set up their bed, unpack their toys, and make sure they have everything they need to feel comfortable in their new environment.
Address Emotional Needs and Offer Support
The emotional aspect of moving can't be overlooked. You may notice that your child is feeling upset, frustrated, or withdrawn after the move. It's crucial to acknowledge these emotions and provide support.
For example, if your child is particularly upset about leaving friends behind, offer reassurance that they will make new friends soon.
To get them excited about their new home, you can plan a family outing to a nearby park or take them to visit local attractions.
Worried About Settling Into a New Home with Kids? __ Read Our Moving Tips for Helping Kids Adjust to a New Home.
Offer Consistent Emotional Support
As your child adjusts to their new environment, they may need ongoing emotional support.
Moving with kids is a gradual process, and every child adapts at their own pace.
Be patient with them as they accept this change and offer plenty of encouragement.
Emotional support should not end once the move is complete—continue to reassure them and help them express their feelings.
Be Patient and Positive
One of the most important things to remember during this process is to be patient.
It's normal for kids to experience a period of adjustment. Patience goes a long way, whether they're struggling with missing friends or simply feeling anxious about the unknown.
Create a positive environment where your children feel safe to express their feelings and adjust to their new surroundings at their own pace.
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