A Parent’s Survival Guide: How to Make Moving House with Kids a Positive Adventure
Moving house is consistently ranked as one of life’s most stressful events. Now, add children to the mix, and the complexity can feel overwhelming. You’re not just moving boxes; you’re moving a whole world that your kids have known. The good news? With the right planning and a positive attitude, moving house with kids doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In fact, it can be an exciting new chapter for the entire family.
This guide will walk you through every stage of the process, providing actionable tips to keep stress low and spirits high.
Phase 1: Before the Move – Laying the Foundation
The work you do before the first box is even packed is the most critical for a smooth transition.
1. Breaking the News: Timing and Tone are Everything
How you tell your children about the move will set the tone for the entire experience.
- For Toddlers & Preschoolers: They won’t understand the concept of moving, but they will pick up on your emotions. Keep it simple and positive. Use phrases like, “We’re going on an adventure to a new house with a fun new room just for you!” Read picture books about moving.
- For School-Aged Kids (6-12): They will have more questions and anxieties about leaving friends and school. Be honest and give them plenty of time to process. Use a map to show them where you’re going. Highlight the exciting new things, like a bigger backyard, a nearby park, or being closer to family.
- For Teenagers: Expect resistance. Their social lives are paramount, and a move can feel like the end of the world. Acknowledge their feelings and validate their frustration. Involve them in the decision-making process where possible (e.g., looking at potential neighbourhoods online, choosing their room).
2. Involve Them in the Process
Children who feel they have some control over the situation are less likely to feel anxious.
- The “Declutter” Mission: Turn decluttering into a game. Ask them to help sort their toys into “keep,” “donate,” and “store” piles. This empowers them and reduces your packing load.
- Let Them Pack a “Special” Box: Give each child their own box to decorate and pack. This should contain their most cherished items: favourite teddy bears, books, pyjamas, and a nightlight. This box travels with you in the car, not the moving truck, and should be the first thing unpacked.
- Research the New Area Together: Explore your new town or city online. Look up parks, libraries, ice cream shops, and potential new clubs or sports teams. Build excitement for what’s to come.
3. The Family Moving Checklist
Stay organised and reduce last-minute panic with a family-focused checklist.
- 6-8 Weeks Before:
- Declutter and organise the entire house.
- Research and book your moving company.
- Notify schools and arrange for record transfers.
- Start a “moving binder” with all important documents.
- 4 Weeks Before:
- Start packing non-essential items (guest rooms, out-of-season clothes, books).
- Clearly label every box with its contents and destination room.
- Submit your change of address form.
- Use up food from the freezer and pantry.
- 1 Week Before:
- Confirm final details with your movers.
- Pack your “First Night Essentials” box (see below).
- Arrange for a babysitter or family member to help with the kids on moving day.
Phase 2: On Moving Day – Survival and Sanity
The big day is here. Your goal is to keep everyone safe, fed, and as calm as possible.
1. The “First Night Essentials” Box is Your Lifeline
This is separate from your child’s “special” box. It contains everything the family needs to survive the first 24 hours without rummaging through endless boxes.
- Toilet paper & paper towels
- Basic toiletries (toothbrushes, soap)
- A change of clothes for everyone
- Phone chargers
- Medications
- Kettle, coffee, tea bags, and mugs
- Snacks and bottled water
- A basic toolkit (screwdriver, scissors)
2. Keep Kids Safe and Occupied
A moving site is a hazardous environment. Designate a “kid-free zone” or, even better, have them stay with grandparents or a trusted friend for the main part of the heavy lifting. If they are with you, set up a safe room with their favourite movies, a tablet, and some quiet activities.
3. Maintain Routines (As Much as Possible)
Kids thrive on routine. Even amidst the chaos, try to stick to regular snack times and nap times. A well-fed, well-rested child is a much happier child.
Phase 3: After the Move – Creating a New Home
You’ve arrived! The boxes may be everywhere, but the emotional work of settling in is just beginning.
1. Prioritise the Kids’ Rooms
Before you tackle the kitchen or living room, set up the kids’ bedrooms. Unpack their “special” box, make their bed with their familiar bedding, and arrange some of their favourite toys. Creating a safe and recognisable space will help them feel secure immediately.
2. Explore Your New Neighbourhood
Turn exploration into an adventure. Go for a walk, find the nearest playground, and have a picnic dinner on the floor of your new living room. The sooner you start creating positive memories in the new space, the faster it will feel like home.
3. Acknowledge Feelings and Say Goodbye
It’s okay for kids (and you!) to be sad about what they’ve left behind.
- Validate their emotions: Don’t say, “Don’t be sad.” Instead, try, “I know you miss our old house and your friends. I miss them too.”
- Stay connected: Schedule video calls with old friends to ease the transition.
- Create a “goodbye ritual”: If possible, visit your old home one last time, or create a photo album of your favourite memories there.
The Smartest Move of All: Hiring Professional Movers
While the tips above can make a huge difference, the single best thing you can do to reduce stress when moving with kids is to hire a professional removalist in Perth.
Trying to manage packing, heavy lifting, and driving a large truck while simultaneously tending to your children’s physical and emotional needs is a recipe for burnout. Here’s why calling the professionals is a game-changer for families:
- You Can Focus on Your Kids: When movers are handling the logistics, you are free to focus 100% on your children. You can comfort them, play with them, and reassure them, which is the most important job on moving day.
- Efficiency and Speed: Professionals work quickly and efficiently. What might take you a full weekend of exhausting labour, they can often accomplish in a single day, minimising disruption to your family’s life.
- Safety: Experienced movers know how to lift heavy furniture and navigate tricky staircases without causing injury or damage. This keeps your family safe and your belongings secure.
- Reduces Your Mental Load: The planning, worrying, and physical strain of a DIY move is immense. Offloading that to a reliable company frees up your mental and emotional energy, allowing you to be a more present and patient parent during a challenging time.
Moving house is the start of a new chapter. By planning ahead, involving your children, and knowing when to ask for help, you can ensure that the chapter begins with excitement and joy, not stress and tears.
