Moving your whole family to a new house can be a little daunting and there is no denying that it’s stressful. Packing everything you own into cardboard boxes isn’t too much fun and this anxiety-provoking process can be even worse when your children are added into the mix. Unfortunately, packing is not the only laborious part of moving because you have to face the challenge of leaving a place where your children are the most comfortable. Combine that with settling in to the new place and it can make everything much more difficult. Cue the temper tantrums!
However, there are ways to make the moving process more bearable – even with cranky kids. Read on to learn about the top family moving tips!

1. Make A Clean Sweep
A few weeks before you begin to pack, think strategically and plan to clear the house of unwanted or unused items. Whether it’s furniture, old kitchen appliances or random things in the attic, it’ll save you plenty of time later down the road because you won’t have to pack those unnecessary items. With that in mind, it’s also the perfect time to make a clean sweep through your child’s room. Consider tossing, recycling, selling or donating the things they no longer use – clothes, toys, electronics, etc. This will make it much easier when it comes time to actually pack because if they don’t see that old toy they haven’t played with in years, they won’t throw a fit later when you are trying to get rid of it.

2. Talk With Your Children About The Move
Just like the time frame above, you’ll want to let your children know in advance about the plans of moving. This is the ideal time for them to digest the information and let out their emotions. Whether they are excited, sad or just confused, you can answer any of the questions they have and prepare them for moving day. Try to get them excited about it because it’ll make the move easier and if they see that your pumped, it’ll make them feel more at ease with the transition. If possible, show them pictures of the new house and tell them where their bedroom will be.

3. Schedule A Visit
If possible, take your children on a trip to visit the new home. Ask your realtor if you can do a walk through with them so they can check out their new address. If you can’t schedule another tour, fear not! You can still give them an in-person snapshot of the house by taking them by it. You could park right outside the home and show them the exterior. With that in mind, take them for walk around the neighborhood because it’ll be a great way to assimilate them to the area.

4. Packing Tips
When it comes time to pack up the house, set aside the items your child uses the most and pack them last. You’ll want to keep them entertained as long as possible while you pack other rooms and allowing them to have their favorite things out will help keep them distracted. On top of that, when you are nearing the end of the packing stage, keep a cardboard box or bag in the car that’s filled with a few of their favorite things so it’s easier to access when you arrive to the new home.

5. Unpack Their Room
When you arrive to the new home, unpack your children’s room first because you want to make them as comfortable as possible in their new space. This will also give them time to adjust and get a feel for their new room. Plus, moving can be tiring and your little ones may be a little cranky, so if you get their bedroom together, they can take a nap while you unpack the rest of the rooms.

With the above tips, you could be on your way to a stress-free move!

Tips for A Stress-Free Move with Young Children by Mike Wheatley | Realty Biz News