Moving with Kids: Tips & Advice for a Stress-Free Transition

Moving can be an exciting and rewarding experience – providing you with the opportunity to start fresh in a new location, perhaps for that new job you landed or to be closer to your family. However, moving with children, particularly younger ones, can present unique challenges.

Whether you’re moving across the country or even just locally, there are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to relocating with kids. Careful planning will be essential for every step – from the practical aspects of packing to the potential emotional impact on your children. To help, U-Haul has compiled a series of tips to assist you with your move, including advice on how U-Box® can be the perfect moving solution for parents.

Here are some tips to make your move as seamless as possible for both you and your children.

10 Tips for Moving with Kids:

1. Involve Your Kids in the Process

Moving can be a big change for kids, so it’s important to involve them in the process as much as possible. Depending on their age, this could mean letting them help pack their belongings or assist in other activities you can find for them in the process. By involving your children in the moving activities, you can encourage them that they are a part of this new and exciting experience which can alleviate some of their anxieties.

2. Talk to Your Kids About the Move

Before you start packing, it’s essential to take the time to talk to your kids about the move. Explain why you’re relocating and what exciting things they can look forward to in their new home. Be upfront about any challenges or changes they might face but be sure to also emphasize the positive aspects of the move – like meeting new friends or having a better place to call home.

3. Keep Your Kids’ Routine in Mind

Moving can disrupt not only your normal everyday routines but your children’s routines as well, potentially making them feel unsettled. It’s important to try and maintain as much of their regular routine as possible, such as morning schedules and mealtimes. By doing so, you can help provide a sense of stability and familiarity during this time of change.

4. Create a Moving Checklist

Moving can be a big task, so it’s helpful to create a moving checklist to keep track of everything that needs to be done. Make a list of tasks such as packing, buying moving supplies, changing your address, etc. – and set deadlines for each one. This can help you stay organized and ahead of schedule during the moving process. This is important as the more organized your moving plans are, the less likely your kids are to feel anxious about the process.

5. Pack Your Kids’ Belongings Last

To make sure that your kids feel comfortable during the move, it’s a great idea to save their things for last when packing. Start with items you use the least in your home and leave their favorite toys and clothes until the end. This way, they can have access to the things that bring them joy throughout the moving process. When taking this approach, you can minimize any disruptions to their routine and make the transition to a new home as smooth as possible.

6. Pack an “Open First” Box

Packing an “open first” box filled with essentials your family will need right away can help make moving to a new home smoother and less stressful. This box can include things like bathroom items, bedding, and a few changes of clothes. By having these items easily accessible, you can settle in more quickly and feel more at home right from the start. This simple but effective tip can make the transition much easier for you and your family.

7. Plan for Travel with Kids

When planning for a long-distance move with kids, it’s important to consider their needs during travel. To make the journey more enjoyable, pack snacks, games, and other activities to keep them entertained. This will help keep your children engaged and in good spirits throughout the trip. By taking the time to plan for travel with your kids in mind, you can make the journey to your new home a more positive experience for everyone involved.

8. Get Help From Family and Friends

Don’t hesitate to reach out to family and friends for help when it comes to moving. Whether it’s packing or keeping an eye on your kids while you handle tasks, having support can make a significant impact on the moving process. Also consider getting professional moving help to make your move even easier. Moving Help powered by U-Haul can help connect you with local and affordable moving companies to assist your move.

9. Make Unpacking Fun for Kids

After a long moving process, unpacking can seem just as daunting as packing up your previous home. But it can also be an opportunity for some fun with your kids. Involve them in the process by letting them help unpack their things and decorate their new room. This can help speed up the transition of feeling at home in their new environment.

10. Take Time to Explore Your New Neighborhood

After the move, take some time to discover your new neighborhood with your family. What better way to become familiar with the unfamiliar than exploring nearby parks, shops, and other attractions in your new area. This can help your children become acclimated to their surroundings more quickly.

U-Box Portable Moving Containers: The Perfect Moving Solution for Parents

U-Box, a moving service powered by U-Haul® – provides parents with the flexibility and convenience they need during their family's move. One of the greatest benefits of using U-Box is the ability to pack at your own pace, which is especially helpful for parents with young children. Rather than rushing to move everything at once, you can take a more relaxed approach, packing and loading your portable moving containers as you have the time. This makes the moving process much more manageable for your family.

Also, U-Box provides an option for using your moving containers as storage until you're ready to move into your new home. This gives your family the freedom to take your time finding the perfect home without feeling pressured to move right away. Overall, the flexibility and convenience of U-Box makes it an ideal solution for parents moving with kids, allowing them to focus on settling into their new home and helping their children adjust to their new environment.

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