Moving out of and into a new home can have its ups and downs emotionally. Finding the right home, leaving your friends, packing everything up and moving your life…it's an experience, and one that should be as stress less as possible; especially when you have kids involved. Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind when you're ready to make your move:
- Think about your timeline. They say timing is everything and when it comes to a move, that's an especially important thing to keep in mind. While you can't always control when you need to make a move, take into consideration when might be the best time in your child's life to move, such as after school is out or during a school break. This will help make the move less stressful and more manageable for you and your child.
- Create a to-do list. Allow the kids to create their own check-list so they feel more involved in being a part of the move. This allows them to start learning how to set priorities and take responsibility for their own items. Set your own priorities as well. Be specific and include "due by" dates for when your tasks need to be completed. Here's a start on your own to-do list.
- Include the kids-- let them help you pack! Kids often like to be involved in the "hub-bub"-- it makes them feel like they're a part of something. Younger kids can help with wrapping picture frames and packing small trinkets. In addition, it allows them to be taught a sense of responsibility and ownership by having them pack their own belongings. You'll want to remember to have them pack their favorite things last so they're not looking for them just prior to the move.
- Keep routines in place. Preparing for a move can be a busy time but keeping your child's normal routine in place will be important as you all prepare for the move. Keeping family dinners, normal bedtimes and any other routines in place will help your child to feel more secure while going through a move.
- Explore your new home and the area together. Before you move, ask your real estate agent if they have a relocation packet available. This often has helpful local information in it with things to do, an overview of the city, restaurants, hotels and much more that you may need to know before you arrive in your new town. This can be a fun family event in looking through the information and deciding what all you'll want to explore. You can also take your kids through the new house so they can start planning for how they want their new rooms to.
- Don't forget the "first few nights" box. Pack a box or two that includes those important items you will need, but wouldn't otherwise be able to find quickly. This may include toiletries, towels, bed linens, disposable kitchen items (such as paper plates, glasses and utensils), important medicines and cleaning supplies. The kids can have their own little boxes with important items they might need to help get them through the first couple of nights comfortably in their new home.
- Personalize your new family home. While unpacking everything the first day you move in is unlikely, unpacking a few personal items can make the home more comfortable and will help your family feel more at ease. Put your child's art work on the refrigerator, set out their favorite pillows or blankets to relax on or hang up family photos. While the boxes are not likely to unpack themselves, having an environment that makes it feel more like home while you're unpacking can help ease the stress.
Cheers to a happy, stress-free move in our area or around the world! Contact us on how we can help.