Moving home is never easy – and it can get more complicated when you’re moving with kids. Whether you’re relocating because of a job, a big change in your life circumstances, telling your kids about your impending move can be challenging.

As a parent, the last thing you want is to upset them and disrupt their routine, as well as the relationships they’ve built through the years.

Taking inspiration from other families or stories can help get you and your children ready for a move.

If you have several kids belonging to different age ranges, this family moving guide is for you. Here, we share some top tips on how to break the news to your kids based on their age, as well as how you can get them accustomed to the idea and even participate in moving day preparations.

Babies And Toddlers

Usually, moving isn’t a huge deal for babies and toddlers, as their world is centred around their significant others, particularly their family.

As long as everyone who matters is there, babies and toddlers have all the security they need. What is important here is to maintain their routine and keep things familiar and predictable.

What to Say: No matter how verbal your child is, what they need are simple explanations that they can easily visualise.

You can use their toys to illustrate what moving means and, more importantly, emphasise that even when you’re moving to a different home, nothing much will change. The whole family will be there, as well as their favourite toys and other essentials.

Parenting Tips: As babies and toddlers thrive on routine and familiarity, make sure you pack their bedroom last and set it up first in your new home.

Also, pack your child’s essentials, including clothes, diapers, toys and snacks. Maintain their sleeping schedule and be generous with snuggles. Children this young don’t care much about where they live as long as you’re there.

School-Age Kids: Primary School

Contrary to what adults may think, children have an awareness of what’s happening around them even when they’re not at an age where they can comprehend everything.

So, instead of letting them imagine the worst or keeping them in the dark, let them know about your upcoming move, especially when you’re about to start your moving preparations.

What to Say: Break the news gently and try to highlight the benefits of moving. Perhaps you’re moving to a bigger house where they can each have their own rooms, or one that has a pool or a big backyard they’ve always wanted.

Talk about the changes that’ll be happening and what will stay the same. Encourage them to ask questions, show them photos or videos of the new place.

Get them excited about the new neighbourhood by talking about nearby destinations.

You can even use Google Maps and show them the street view of your soon-to-be new address.

Parenting Tips: Help your child feel like they’re in control by allowing them to take charge of packing up their must-bring toys, books and other items.

Help them cope with the anxiety of leaving their favourite teachers and friends behind. Guide them on when and how to say goodbye. Perhaps reassure them that you could plan a future trip for them to see their best friend.

Teach your child how to stay in touch digitally by setting up their email or chat group with their closest friends. If your child wants to make keepsakes for their friends, be there to help.

School-Age Kids: Secondary School

Compared to younger kids, it’s usually tougher to talk about major changes like moving homes with older children. They would have built a significant friendship circle at this age and you can expect their feelings to be more complex.

What to Say: Although your child might not like the decision to move, avoid prolonging the agony by letting them know about it as early as possible.

Doing so will give them ample time to process and eventually accept the idea of moving. By telling them straight early on, you’re also being considerate, as your child will surely need time to say their goodbyes.

Also, be prepared for your child and their friends spending a lot of time in your soon-to-be former home. Be understanding and supportive, and answer their questions honestly.

Parenting Tips: Share your moving schedule with your child and let them know when they absolutely must be ready with the items they want to take during the move.

To get your child more involved, put them in charge of organising your garage sale if you plan to have one, or let them help with labelling boxes.

What Else Can I Do To Prepare My Kids For A Move?

Hold A Family Meeting To Discuss

Go See The New Place

Get Your Kids Involved In The Moving Process

Be Sensitive To Their Feelings

Consider Throwing A Party

Here’s to a Stress-Free Move for the Whole Family!

Moving to a new home is inherently stressful and requires thorough planning and preparation – including getting your kids ready for your upcoming relocation. Thankfully there are many things you can do to get your house in gear.

Staying Organised: By keeping on top of things, you will run into fewer problems on moving day, adopting a moving checklist for example can make all the difference.

Staying Stress-Free: Whether it’s your kids generally being difficult or you are a single parent, staying relaxed ahead of a move is key to your success. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the move and take a small break in between activities if you need to.

Get Assistance: If you feel there is too much to do, then it’s never a bad idea to consider getting a professional removalist involved. Our article on how to find a cheap removal company can help you get started. This may seem like obvious advice, but if you have children involved, then moving homes and entertaining them can be quite a handful. There are plenty of companies that can assist and it helps give you the peace of mind that you will be in good hands while you attend to the kids.