Moving houses can be a challenging time for kids, no matter their age. As adults, we need to do our best to make the move a smooth emotional transition for them, while still getting all those boxes packed and the keys handed over on time. To make things easier for you and your family, here are our top 5 tips for moving with kids.

1. Pack Their Room Last
   Your child’s bedroom is their sanctuary- the one room in the house where they have the most control (Amy wants purple walls; Jake likes his toys set up this way). We recommend making their room the last one you pack up. This not only gives them some time to witness what packing up a house looks like, but it also ensures they have a space they feel secure in when everything else in their environment is changing.
2. Prepare Them
   A child’s understanding of what it means to move house expands as they grow up. You want to inform them of the transition that is about to happen, but in a way they understand.
   
   For kids under 5, tell them that all their family members, pets, and toys are going to a fun new home together. Share all the fun things to do in their new neighbourhood, like bike rides and playing in the backyard.
   
   For older kids, share why you’re making the move in simple terms (to be closer to Mom’s work; to be in a bigger house) and let them ask questions. If they express anxiety about it, validate those emotions and then point out the positive aspects of moving.
3. Create a Moving-Week Plan
   Moving day is likely going to be busy, but it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Create a plan for the week of the move in advance. Share the plan with your kids (if they’re old enough to understand). On one day, they are going to stay with grandma and grandpa. On the next day, they are going to help pack the seasonal clothing. It’s important to give them an idea of what to expect.
4. Help Them Say Goodbye
   Leaving the only home they’ve known can be sad and scary. Help them close that chapter by saying goodbye to the house and thanking it for everything it has given them. You might want to let them take pictures of the rooms, write down the things they loved about it, and even make handmade gifts for the neighbours and friends they were close with.
5. Make It Fun
   Kids relieve their stress and anxiety through fun and play. If you have toddlers, make time for lots of cuddles throughout moving week. Pause what you’re doing to let them put things (and likely take things out) of boxes.
   
   For older kids, gamify whatever you can. If you want them to decide which books they want to bring, pretend their room is a bookstore and they have to put stickers on the books they’d like to buy (if they’re a bit older, give them a budget and put prices on the books).

Ready to Make the Move in Hamilton?
If you’re ready to move to a new house in Hamilton, the de Denus Team is here to take care of all the details. Contact us today to learn more.