The process of moving homes can be very tough for any child, especially if they have to move far away from their current home. They might have to say goodbye to their friends, teachers and the comfort of familiar surroundings. This can all be quite daunting and overwhelming for a child.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to make the process easier for your child. Here are some top tips for moving house with kids:
1. Make time for regular chats about the move
It’s essential to keep your child up-to-date with all of the latest developments regarding the move so that they always feel involved and included in the process. Schedule regular chats about what’s happening, where you’re moving to, and how they can prepare for their new home and school.
2. Give them a chance to say goodbye
Children often struggle with saying goodbye when they move, so it’s important to give them an opportunity to do this in their own way. Whether this means having a farewell party with friends, or simply spending some time alone to say goodbye to their old surroundings and memories, be sure to give them the space they need to process the move in their own way.
3. Help them pack up their favourite things
As children are often very attached to certain items from home, it can be helpful to let them pack their most treasured possessions themselves. This might include their favourite toys, books, or even photos of loved ones. By allowing them to take ownership over this process, you can help them feel more connected to the things they’re taking with them on their journey.
4. Move with kids during the summer holidays
Moving to a new state is always tough, but it’s especially hard when you have kids. A great time to do this is during summer break so your kids don’t miss any school days. It also makes things easier logistically speaking. You won’t have to worry about registering your kids for classes amidst the chaos of all the other parents doing the same thing. And finally, there’s a greater chance that your kids will make friends over summer break and start school feeling less alone.
5. Start looking for a new school before you move
It’s crucial that you start looking for a new school to send your children to before you move, regardless of whether they’re in primary or high school. By beginning your research early, you can understand the educational requirements and familiarise yourself with the schooling system in advance, to make sure both you and your kids have a smooth transition.
If you need assistance in finding a school before you move interstate , most states have an online public school finder:
NSW Public School Finder
Queensland Department of Education Schools Directory
Department for Education South Australia
Find my school Victoria
Western Australia Department of Education
Northern Territory Government list of urban and remote schools
Tasmania Government Department for Education School Directory
6. Find activities and friends in their new neighbourhood
To help make the move smoother for your child, it’s beneficial to find activities and friends in their new neighbourhood as soon as possible. This might include signing them up to a sports club or theatre group, or simply meeting other children in the area so that they quickly feel at home.
7. Seek professional support if needed
Finally,, if your child is having a tough time dealing with sadness or anxiety after the move, professional help should be sought immediately. This could look like meeting with a counsellor, therapist, or other mental health specialist who will create a safe space for your kiddo to talk through their feelings and emotions.
There are many services available , both online and in person, that can help make the transition easier for your child. The most important thing is to recognise when your kid needs professional help and get them the resources they need to adjust to their new life.
The links below will help you get the support and services you need:
Headspace
Beyond Blue
Raising Children
Emerging Minds
Tips during the moving process
1. Start packing early
The moving process can be a very stressful time for children. By starting your packing early you can help alleviate much of their anxiety. Depending on your child’s age, you may want to start with their toys. Giving them a sense of control over the process will help ease some stress. If your child is older, allow them to pack one box that holds their most valued belongings. This can be helpful for on-the-go teenagers who are always on the go and need all of this item at hand. If you want to start your packing process early but you don’t know where to start click here to read our helpful guide on how to pack for a move with 50 tips and tricks.
2. Make a checklist
Having a checklist is one of the best ways you can keep on top of things throughout the moving process. Make a list of all the major jobs you need to do and tick them off as you go along. This will ensure that nothing gets overlooked, which can often happen when there’s so much going on.
We have several helpful checklists that could assist you throughout the moving process:
The advance guide to moving house
3. Keep your children informed
Moving house is a big change, and it can be tough on kids who feel like they’re being left out of the process. Keep them updated throughout so they know what’s happening; this will help ease their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable.
4. Create a kid’s box
A ‘kids box’ is a creative way to keep your children occupied while you move. It should be filled with their favourite items, such as snacks, books, games, and so on. This will not only entertain them but also allow you some time to focus on the task at hand!
5. Get your kids involved
Moving house can be a stressful time for everyone in the household, so it’s great if you can get your children involved with the packing process as much as possible. Let them help by packing their own items or even just packing up their room. This will help them feel more settled and connected with their new home.
Give yourself a break and let the experts handle your move
At Gentle Giant Removals & Relocations, we understand how moving can be stressful for both you and your children. Our professional removalists and relocation experts are here to help, ensuring the entire packing and relocating process is as stress-free as possible. We specialise in interstate moves and can pack and relocate all your belongings to the new location with ease. Contact us today for more information on our services or get a free quote today!
