Are you relocating to a new job opportunity? Have you received PCS orders for your military family? Having an open-table family meeting with pizza, is a great way to explain to your kids the process of moving day and what to expect. Leaving the family home can be a difficult process for kids. However, the excitement of a new, family adventure, can set children up for positive outcomes. Below are some great tips for families who desire a “less-stressful” moving day.
Prior to moving day, have your children help with organizing and cleaning the home. Allow them to pack their own travel bag with a couple of comfort items, such as, blankets, a favored stuffed animal, and their pacifier. For older children, let them pick out some awesome snacks and drinks along with headphones, video games, and other small hobby items that will make their trip to a new home more manageable.
The night before moving day or sooner, prepare a Safe Zone or” OFF LIMITS-NOT TO BE SHIPPED” area, where you can place personal belongings or last minute donation items. This will ease the communication between you and the moving company on what needs to be packed and items that are off-limits to crew. It’s also beneficial to make a “list of important items/information” for the crew involving situations like, “leaving beds assembled until loading day” or “not packing the baby’s diapers.” Give yourself time to make a well-thought out list days before moving day.
For moving day, set up a babysitter or playdate for your children outside the home. Families with pets should consider either crating their pet in the safe zone, or taking their pet to a family or friends home. Moving can be very overwhelming for kids and pets, with new faces packing up their toys and putting them inside a big truck. Movers need to be able to pack safely and parents need to have a clear thinking space. A playdate for your children is a safe way for them to have fun with friends or family without worrying their busy parents.
When moving day is over, it can be helpful to allow your kids to bid farewell to your home before their new adventure begins! Be sure to check out our links for a packing list and other information.