How To Help Children Handle Moving House

Moving is a big change for everyone in the house, but it can be particularly difficult for children. They don’t always understand why you’re moving and may be very attached to your previous home. How can you help them move without the stress? Here are a few tips:

Talk To Them Early On 

As soon as you know you’ll be moving, let the children know. You can build excitement by talking about the good things that will come with the new place. Take the time to walk the neighbourhood, discover new areas to play in, and get to know the place. They’ll have time to adjust to the idea of moving into a new place and can even get excited about it if you give them the chance to assimilate. 

Give Them Control 

There are many things that your child cannot control about the move, so make sure you give them some choices they can make themselves. They may be able to give their opinion on houses you look at, or they may choose the paint colour for their room. The more choices you can offer, the better your child will feel about the entire process.

Grab A Toy 

Your child should have a chance to select their favourite toy to hold onto when travelling to their new home. It can be helpful to have something familiar on hand to help ease their stress. They will also have something to play with while you’re busy directing the removal company and unpacking.

Set Up Their Room First 

As quickly as possible, have your child’s room set up. Seeing familiar belongings everywhere tends to help children adjust faster and, in their room, they’ll feel like they have a safe haven. Allow for their input wherever possible, such as placing the bed or which way the wardrobe should face. These are little things, but they can make a big difference to a child who is confused or worried about the big changes going on around them.

Make It Fun 

Moving day is stressful for everyone and children may find this difficult. A simple way to ensure everyone has fun is to make a list of what must be accomplished, with ice cream at the end. Have contests to see who can complete each task fastest. You should also bring along snacks and drinks to keep kids happy and calm. Nothing makes a moving day worse than hungry children.

With a little care and forethought, your move can be smooth, even if you have children along for the ride.

Need help ensuring your move is easy? Contact Michael Garret Removals to book your removals service and provide the moving side of things goes well, so you can manage the children.