This article focuses more on the organizational tips for moving with kids. If you want advice on how to talk to your kids about moving and preparing them for the move, you can find that here.
Having to uproot is a difficult and stressful enough task, and doing it all with little ones in tow is even harder- young children especially aren’t renowned for patience during long stretches of dullness. Thankfully, the problems that arise around moving home are in the main lots of little issues, that if left till the last minute are the root of all that stress. The following are a few tips for moving with kids that should help you on the lead up to the day itself, as well as on moving day, with particular regard for keeping your children busy.
5 Organizational Tips For Moving With Kids:
•The earlier small jobs that need doing can be completed the better, as the last thing you want is to make a mountain out of a mole hill. These sorts of moving to-dos include meter readings at both of the properties, letting companies like utilities providers and the bank know about your imminent change of address, and also liaising with any local authorities, especially if moving out of the area.
•For the easier jobs, let your children get involved and give them some as tasks. It will keep them entertained and also make them feel part of the move, which can be a traumatic experience for some kids, especially if the move is to a strange new town.
•Having the right ‘gear’ can help you avoid annoying incidents on moving day, like broken possessions and torn boxes. Most people would get their boxes for packing up from the local shop, however investing in some fit-for-purpose cardboard boxes that can withstand stacking, moisture and are thicker, will pay dividends, especially if your prized possessions are going to be in storage for any length of time. Make use of packing materials to keep things safe in the boxes.
•Again, involve your kids when packing items away, especially when tackling their rooms. You’ll be glad of the help ultimately, and it will also ensure that none of their favorite toys or other items are left behind.
•Making sure bed linen and comforting objects like favourite blankets and such are easy to reach at the top of packed boxes, so that children can get some rest and start to settle in at the new house before unpacking proper is finished. The whole family getting a good night of sleep the day before will also help, and packed lunches or take-away numbers for when everything is still in the boxes at the other end is also a good idea!
•Lastly, bring along plenty of food and drink for the journey on the day, especially if it’s likely to take a while, and bring plenty for the kids to do such as books, magazines, handheld consoles etc.
Hopefully, these organizational tips for moving with kids will give you less things to think about on moving day, and everything will run as smoothly as possible.