Moving with Kids? Here’s How to Make It Easier
Relocating with kids is tough. These ten tried-and-true tips make the transition smoother and help your family settle in with less stress.
Let’s be real. Moving with kids isn’t for the faint of heart. Between packing up your life, keeping emotions in check, and figuring out how to make a new place feel like home, it can feel overwhelming fast.
But here’s the thing: while the challenges are very real (cue the packing tape stuck to your elbow and the toddler tantrum in a box fort), it is possible to make a family move smoother, with a little planning, communication, and a whole lot of patience.
We have made a big move with our crew, and through plenty of trial, error (and bribery) I’ve rounded up these tried-and-true tips to help other moms navigate the transition. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, these ideas are designed to keep your kids feeling safe, involved, and even a little excited along the way.
1. Start the Conversation Early
As soon as the move is a sure thing, bring your kids into the loop. Keep it simple and positive: “We’re moving to a new house where you’ll have your very own tree to climb!” Let them ask questions and share their feelings. Even if their reactions range from thrilled to teary, just listening helps them feel secure.
2. Let Them Pack (a Little)
Give your kids age-appropriate tasks. Maybe they pack their stuffed animals, or decorate the box for their toys. One idea I’ve seen that would help kids feel in control amidst the chaos, is making a “treasure box” of their favorite things.
3. Routines = Sanity
In the whirlwind of moving, keeping up with regular mealtimes, naps, and bedtimes can be your anchor. Familiar routines are soothing, especially when everything else feels up in the air.
4. Use Storytime as a Soft Landing
Books about moving are such a gentle way to help kids process big changes. We found a few picture books that sparked some great conversations (and bonus: it helped calm bedtime during all the box tower madness).
5. Explore the New Neighborhood Together
If you can swing it, take a pre-move visit to the new area. Walk around the school, stop by the playground, or pick a new ice cream spot to try after move-in. When kids have a “fun thing” to look forward to, it softens the uncertainty.
6. Goodbyes Matter
It’s so tempting to gloss over goodbyes when you’re in go-go-go mode, but taking time to honor what you’re leaving helps kids move forward. Set up playdates, exchange contact info, and even create a memory book or photo album of your old home. We love to throw a big farewell party!
7. Settle Their Space First
The moment those boxes start rolling into the new house, make your child’s room the top priority. Familiar bedding, stuffed animals, nightlights—whatever makes it feel like their place. It’s amazing how much a cozy corner can help. We like to go to the store and let them pick out something fun and special for their new room!
8. Expect Big Feelings
Moving brings out all the emotions (for kids and grownups). Mood swings, clinginess, or even regression are normal. Be patient and validate their feelings: “I know this is hard—I miss our old place too.”
9. Find Your Village
Once you’re in the new place, look into local mom groups, storytimes, or neighborhood meet-ups. Finding other families, especially ones with kids the same age, helps everyone feel more connected faster.
10. Celebrate the New Chapter
Whether it’s a mini housewarming party with takeout on the floor or a family “countdown to moving day,” marking the occasion makes it feel special. Celebrate your bravery as a family and the fresh start ahead.
Fellow Relo Mom, if you’re prepping for a move, take a deep breath. You’ve got this. It won’t all go perfectly, but with a little planning and a lot of grace (especially for yourself), this transition can turn into something really meaningful.
Have you moved with kids recently? I’d love to hear your best tip, or biggest lesson learned, in the comments below!