Moving with Kids in Tow – How to Avoid Moving-Day Blues

Moving was hard during your college years, but with kids in tow? That comes with challenges that many a parent would wish away if they could. With a million details to see to, is it unrealistic to hope for a scream-free moving day?

Some savvy parents have suggested sending your kids to be with relatives during the height of your move. But not everyone has relatives close enough or capable of pulling babysitting duty. If you fall in that category, Mom and Dad, we’ve got you covered. Read on for a battle plan to get you through the chaos of a move without losing your cool.

Breaking the news.

Properly preparing your kids can be the difference in helping them cope and experience an easier transition. How far in advance should you break the news? From 3-4 weeks will give you both time and space to deal with the emotional fallout well enough in advance of moving day.

Fear of the unknown is a common trouble for adults and kids alike. The way to help alleviate this type of anxiety is by providing as much information as you can. Pull up maps of your new area. Research restaurants, shops, parks, the new school, and other points of interest.

Hire professionals.

Gone are the days when all your belongings could fit in the back trunk of your Volvo. Neither should you try. Professional movers can ease much of the stress associated with moving and allow you to deal with the finer points that only you can take care of. According to this Beverly Hills moving company, “You also want movers with lots of experience who will show you how to pack and then come to your home and move all of your items fast and without any breakage problems. The right movers can make all the difference.”

Scheduling it right.

Even with professional movers hired for moving day, you’re still the mastermind who has to make all the pieces come together. Take a hint from successful people from all walks of life – scheduling tasks is the way to go.

As far as 4 weeks out, start a schedule as to what needs to be done each week prior to your move. And then create and schedule tasks for after the move. Having a master schedule that everyone in the family can see and refer to, and add to as needed, will keep everyone on the same page and minimize conflicts.

Pack one overnight bag per child.

It’s a rare move where something doesn’t go missing at some point. Even with the most organized mover at the helm, chances are high that you’ll have a child or two complain about not being able to find some item. They need it immediately and can’t live another moment without it.

A week prior to moving day, start up a list of what should go into your kid’s overnight bag. Even with children old enough to get a bag like this ready, double check the contents just in case. Essentials include personal entertainment devices, snacks, PJs, their toothbrush, etc.

Have a fail-proof meal plan for feeding the team.

Moving blues have been known to come to a breaking point amid the chaos and uncertainty of a new place. Tempers can flare when dinners are pushed back because you can’t find the box the plates were packed in. No one is in a sane frame of mind when stomachs are growling. With so much going on to set up your home, you might not be up for cooking full on meals for a couple of days after you arrive. Cut yourself some slack and have takeout numbers ready. Or find a family-friendly restaurant to eat out at. Having a solid plan of what you’ll do for food for the first couple of days will spare you a good number of meltdowns – we promise.