Moving house is stressful at the best of times. It’s a challenging time even for adults. Relocating with children can be a complex undertaking. Even more so when you have to pack up their belongings which might be spread over multiple rooms within your home. Below are some tips for navigating the situation with minimal stress for the whole family and facilitating an effortless moving experience for all.
INVOLVE YOUR CHILDREN IN THE PROCESS
Engaging children in your moving process can be mutually beneficial. It can be a bonding exercise that makes it a lot easier for little ones to navigate. Both physically and emotionally. You’ll give your children an understanding of what goes on behind the scenes, as well as provide yourself with extra hands. This approach benefits everyone. Assign age-appropriate tasks like packing toys or sorting books. Making moving an activity for all members of the family reduces feelings of stress associated with a house move while simultaneously creating excitement about the change for both them and you!
Allow your children to ask questions and voice any concerns they have. Listen and explain details they might not fully understand.
DON’T DISCARD ITEMS WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR CHILDREN
While it might be tempting to discreetly discard some toys or clothes during a move, it is crucial not to discard any belongings of your children without consulting them first. Even seemingly minor objects can hold great emotional weight for children. Always consult them before making decisions regarding keeping, donating or discarding their possessions as this will help ensure they feel respected in the decision-making process as well as avoid potential emotional upset caused by unexpectedly losing a cherished item.
HIRE TRUSTWORTHY MOVING SPECIALISTS
It is crucial that when moving children’s items, especially fragile toys or delicate clothing, you hand this task to trusted removalists. Look for a company with good reviews and recommendations as their staff will understand how best to handle items that hold sentimental value. Trusted removalists can ease some of the stress involved with moving, giving you more time and attention to settling in their new environment while you focus on getting ready.
DON’T RUSH THE UNPACKING PROCESS
Moving is more than just packing and transporting items – unpacking is just as essential. Particularly when it comes to your children’s belongings. Resist any urges to unpack everything quickly. Instead, take time organising their rooms thoughtfully with their input. They should decide where their bed goes, toys arranged properly or books stored properly. This will give them a sense of control and help familiarise them with their new environment. A rushed process could result in lost items and disorganisation that further add stress when dealing with stressful circumstances.
MAINTAIN YOUR USUAL ROUTINES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
Establishing a sense of normality for children during a move is of utmost importance. Try your best to maintain routines as much as possible during all the chaos of packing, moving, and unpacking. Be mindful to make meal times, bedtimes, play dates or school work activities consistent for them despite all the disruption. Consistency gives your children reassurance and security during this transition process. It helps them adapt quicker to their new environment. Maintain their familiar bedtime story reading ritual by unpacking their favourite books first. Also, try and recreate any unique breakfast habits they might have established within days of moving – these routines provide comfort during an otherwise unfamiliar and potentially stressful period.
BE MINDFUL OF THEIR EMOTIONAL NEEDS
Moving is both physically and emotionally draining for children (and adults). It is vitally important not to disregard their emotional needs during this transition process. Children may feel an intense sense of loss as they transition away from familiar environments, friends and routines. Encourage your children to express their feelings – positive and negative. Communicating will help them adjust more easily to this change in lifestyle. Assuring them of all of the exciting experiences that lie ahead is equally as essential, from meeting new people at school to exploring exciting new adventures – patience, understanding and reassurance from parents are essential in helping children cope with this move.
Moving your children’s belongings requires careful planning, patience, and consideration of their emotions. By adhering to these do’s and don’ts you can ensure a more positive moving experience for all involved. Good luck with your pending move!
