Moving House with Children Tips

Moving house with children can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. While adults may focus on logistics, children often experience a mix of emotions—excitement, anxiety, or sadness about leaving their familiar surroundings. They may worry about losing friends, adjusting to a new school, or simply missing their old home. As a parent, you can ease their transition with thoughtful planning, open communication, and small actions that make the move feel less stressful and more like an adventure.

How to Prepare Your Child for Moving House?

Talk to Your Child About the Move Early

Children need time to process big changes. Instead of waiting until the last moment, explain the move as early as possible. Talk about why you’re moving and what they can expect in the new home. If possible, show them pictures of the house or take them for a visit. This will make the change feel less sudden and give them time to adjust.

Address Their Emotions and Concerns

Moving can bring out a variety of emotions in children. Some may be excited, while others may feel sad or even angry. Let them know it’s okay to have mixed feelings. Encourage them to express their concerns, and reassure them that their feelings are valid. Acknowledge that they will miss their old home, but also highlight the fun and exciting things about the new one.

Read Books and Watch Shows About Moving

Books and TV shows that feature characters going through a move can help children understand the process better. Reading The Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day or watching kid-friendly moving-themed episodes can make the concept feel more familiar. Stories can also provide comfort and reassurance, helping children feel less alone in their emotions.

Involve Your Child in Packing and Planning

Giving children a sense of control can help them feel more positive about the move. Let them help pack their toys, choose decorations for their new room, or make a “new house wish list.” Even small decisions—like picking their room color or deciding where their furniture will go—can make them feel more excited and included in the process.

Visit the New Area Before Moving

If possible, take your child to visit the new home, local parks, or their new school before moving day. If visiting isn’t an option, show them pictures, take a virtual tour, or explore the area using Google Maps. Seeing familiar places in advance will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious about the transition.

Stick to Your Child’s Usual Routine

Big changes like moving can feel overwhelming, so keeping some things consistent helps. Try to maintain their regular bedtime, meal schedule, and activities as much as possible. A stable routine provides comfort and security, making the transition smoother.

How to Prepare for Moving Day with Kids

Pack a Special Bag for Moving Day

Pack a separate bag for each child with their favorite toys, books, snacks, and comfort items. Moving day can be hectic, so having familiar belongings nearby will help keep them calm and entertained. Include items like a stuffed animal, coloring books, or a favorite blanket to make them feel secure.

Label and Prioritize Their Belongings

Label all moving boxes clearly, especially those with your child’s belongings. When you arrive at the new home, unpack their things first. Seeing their favorite toys, bedding, and books in their room will make the space feel more like home.

Consider Childcare or a Babysitter

Moving day can be chaotic, and young children may feel stressed or get in the way. If possible, ask a family member or babysitter to look after them for the day. If they stay with you, assign them small “jobs” like carrying light items or decorating moving boxes to keep them engaged.

Take Time for Goodbyes

Saying goodbye to the old home is important for children. Take a moment to walk through the empty house together, reminiscing about happy memories. You could also take photos of their old bedroom or create a memory book with pictures of favorite spots in the house. If they’re leaving friends behind, help them exchange phone numbers or schedule video calls to stay connected.

Helping Your Child Adjust to the New Home

Unpack and Set Up Their Room First

Once you arrive, prioritize setting up your child’s room. Use their old bedding for the first few nights to keep things familiar. Unpack their favorite toys and books right away, so the space feels comfortable and welcoming.

Explore the New Home and Neighborhood

Let your child explore their new home with you. Walk around together and name the different rooms. If there’s a backyard, encourage them to play outside. Take a walk in the neighborhood, visit nearby parks, or stop by their new school so they feel more at home.

Celebrate the First Night in the New Home

Make the first night in the new home fun! Order their favorite food, watch a family movie, or play board games together. This creates a positive association with the new home and helps everyone feel settled.

Help Them Stay in Touch with Old Friends

If your child had close friends in the old neighborhood, encourage them to keep in touch through video calls, letters, or occasional visits. This can help ease the sadness of leaving familiar friendships behind.

Encourage Your Child to Make New Friends

Making new friends can help your child adjust faster. Look for local playgroups, after-school activities, or sports teams they can join. Meeting other kids in the area will help them feel more comfortable and connected to their new community.

Be Patient—Adjustment Takes Time

It’s normal for children to take weeks or even months to fully adjust to a new home. They might express sadness, act out, or say they miss the old house. Be patient, listen to their concerns, and reassure them that these feelings will pass. Remind them that, over time, their new house will feel like home.

Special Tips for Moving Long-Distance or Internationally

Prepare for Language and Cultural Differences

If you’re moving to a different country, introduce your child to the new language through books, cartoons, or apps. Explain cultural differences and help them understand what to expect in their new environment.

Explain How Their Belongings Will Be Moved

If moving internationally, explain that some of their belongings may arrive later by ship or plane. Reassure them that their favorite things are safe and will be with them soon.

Keep Familiar Items for Comfort

Pack snacks, toys, and familiar household items to bring along. Some favorite foods or everyday products might not be available in the new country, so having a small supply can help ease the transition.

Conclusion

Moving house with children doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing them in advance, keeping familiar routines, and making the new home feel welcoming, you can help them adjust smoothly. Acknowledge their emotions, involve them in the process, and turn the move into a positive adventure. With time, patience, and reassurance, your child will feel at home in their new surroundings and embrace the change with excitement.