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Facing a move with children? You’re not alone — most of the Mykidstime team have moved house with kids at different ages and stages, and we’ve pulled together the tips that made the biggest difference for our own families. Here’s the Mykidstime Guide to Moving House with Children.
#1. Involve Your Child in the Process
Bring your child into the planning as early as you can. Let them have a say in small things, like what colour they’d like their new room to be, and help them get familiar with the new place before moving day itself. Even young children feel calmer about a big change when they know a little of what to expect.
Here’s a short video with some helpful thoughts on involving your kids in the move:
#2. Ask Them to Pick What They Have Outgrown
As you pack, if your child is old enough, get them involved in choosing what they’ve outgrown. Toys, games and books that are no longer used can be donated to charity or a local children’s hospital — it’s a nice way for kids to feel they’re helping someone else, too.
#3. Keep Aside Special Toys and Books
On the morning of the move, set aside a few special toys and books in a separate bag or small box to travel with you in the car. Having familiar favourites close by can be a real comfort on a busy, unsettling day.
#4. Have Some Bedding Organised
Pack a few sheets, towels and favourite blankets separately so you can make up beds as soon as you arrive at the new house, even if the rest of the unpacking takes a while longer.
#5. Have Some Entertainment Ready
Bring along a few favourite DVDs, downloaded shows, or a tablet loaded with familiar programmes, in case the internet or TV connection isn’t up and running straight away in the new house. Having something familiar to watch can buy you valuable time to unpack.
Recommended reading: Tips for Moving Overseas with Children
#6. Involve Them in Some Reconnaissance
Turn it into a bit of an adventure — get the kids to help you scope out the new area in advance, checking out playgrounds, parks and the local library. It’s a fun way for them to feel excited about the move, and it helps everyone get oriented in the new neighbourhood.
#7. Pack Kids’ Plates and Cups Separately
Pack your children’s plates and cups in a clearly labelled box so you can find them easily and have the first few mealtimes sorted as soon as you arrive. (And it’s worth knowing where the grown-ups’ glasses are too!)
#8. Make Beds First Priority
Getting beds set up — whether new or simply reassembled — should be one of the first jobs in the new house. A familiar, comfortable bed makes that first night so much easier. Ask your child to help arrange their favourite toys or books nearby to help them settle in.
#9. Organise Utilities in Advance
Let your gas, electricity, phone and broadband providers know there are children in the new house, so connections are set up correctly and on time. It’s worth having a backup plan just in case something isn’t switched on straight away.
#10. Get to Know Your New Neighbourhood
In the first few days, take some time to walk around the new neighbourhood together. Exploring with your child helps them feel more at home and gives them a chance to spot the places that will soon become familiar — the park, the shop, a friendly face on the street.
If you have any other tips that helped your family through a house move, we’d love to hear them in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I help my child feel less anxious about moving house?
Talk about the move openly and give your child small choices where you can, such as picking their new room colour or helping pack their own things. Keeping familiar routines and favourite items close by during the move also helps a lot.
What should I pack separately for moving day itself?
Keep a dedicated bag or box with essentials for the first day and night — favourite toys, books, bedding, a change of clothes, and any comfort items your child can’t do without.
How soon should we explore the new neighbourhood?
As soon as you can, ideally within the first few days. Walking around together helps children build a mental map of their new surroundings and start to feel settled.
Is it normal for kids to find moving house upsetting?
Yes, it’s a big change even when it’s a positive one, and it’s completely normal for children to feel unsettled for a little while. Patience, familiar routines, and reassurance usually help them adjust.
Related Articles
- The Mykidstime Guide to Moving Overseas with Children
- Helping Your Child Settle Into a New School
- Family Life: Managing Big Changes with Kids
Save These Ideas for Later
Moving house is a busy time, so why not bookmark this guide or share it with a friend who’s about to make the move themselves? You can always come back to it when you need a quick reminder of what to pack first.
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