Moving house can be a whirlwind of emotions – even for grown-ups! Packing boxes, paperwork, and endless to-do lists, it’s overwhelming. So throwing children into the mix might seem like a recipe for disaster, but if you handle it carefully, there’s no reason for it to be stressful at all. In fact, if you frame it right, a house move can be an exciting adventure. Here are some tips on how to make the move as fun and stress-free as possible.
Talk About the Move Early and Often
Children thrive on routine and familiarity, no surprises there. So, try not to make any sudden announcements about moving. Start the conversation early by encouraging them to talk about how they would feel about moving house and about the different changes that might occur. Frame the early conversations positively, and soon they’ll be excited about the move. Remember to keep their age in mind too – toddlers won’t need as much detail, but older children may have lots of questions.
Once a positive conversation has been established, introduce some of the challenges they might encounter. Be honest about them! But also, mention the highlights too. For example, are you closer to the park? Or nearer to the football ground?
Let Them Be Part of the Process
Giving children a sense of involvement can help them to feel more in control. Dare I say it, they can actually be genuinely helpful! Take them on a tour of your potential new area, or if it’s a little far, show them pictures of the new house. Take them to see the property before the move so they can start imagining their new life there.
While you’re at the house, remember that even tiny decisions can make a big difference. Let them pick the colour of their new room, or choose their own bed. Feeling like their voice matters can transform the move from something that’s merely happening to them into something they’re actively part of.
How to Sell?
The way you sell could impact the time you have to discuss the move with your children. There are lots of ways to sell, and there will likely be one that sticks out as the ‘right’ route for your family. Sometimes selling via an online estate agent can yield quicker results at a lower cost than going for the more traditional route. This often allows you to be given an instant valuation and sell quicker, giving you a bit more time to deal with the important things, like getting your kids excited about the move.
Keep Familiar Routines
As much as possible, try to maintain your child’s routines during the move. Bedtimes, mealtimes, and after-school activities can all serve as anchors of normalcy. Familiarity provides comfort, so stick to their usual rituals, even if they’re surrounded by cardboard boxes and packing tape!
If your move requires them to switch schools, time it thoughtfully. Starting at the beginning of a term is often easier than jumping in mid-year. Before their first day, visit the new school together, meet their teachers, and help them get a feel for the environment. Spending a few evenings at an after-school club can be a great way for them to get a head start on making friends.
Pack a Moving Day Survival Kit
Preparing a special kit for your kids can help keep them occupied and calm on moving day. Include their favourite snacks, books, small toys, and perhaps a handheld console to keep them entertained. Don’t forget comfort items like a stuffed animal or blanket to provide emotional security during the quieter moments.
If you have slightly older kids, then get them involved carrying the lighter boxes, or unpacking their things into their own rooms. If they’re younger, it’s sometimes easier to ask a family member or trusted friend to keep an eye on your kids while you oversee the logistics.
Frame It as an Adventure
Finally, frame the experience as an adventure and create small milestones they can look forward to along the way. Maybe they’ll discover the best ice cream shop in the area, or find hidden treasures while unpacking their boxes. Perhaps you could turn packing into a game, like a scavenger hunt, where they can earn rewards for finding specific items. Children have amazing imaginations, so why not tap into that to make the move feel exciting?