*This is a collaborative guest post.
Everyone knows that moving house is stressful. Yet for families with children, the impact of relocating increases tenfold. It’s not just the question of new commutes, redirected mail, and polite introductions with neighbours; parents have to monitor their children’s well-being.
Start off on the right foot, whether you’re moving into new build homes or period properties. Here’s how to make moving house stress-free for your children.
Involve children in the moving process
An effective method to reduce anxiety is by proactively involving children in the move. Allow your child to pack their own special belongings, pick out new decorations, and plan a few visits before the big day.
Allowing that sense of agency and control over the change is key to keeping children happy and involved in moving to new homes. Aim to build excitement, not anxiety. But always discuss difficult emotions openly, normalising and validating any wobbles that rear their head.
Maintain consistent routines
Ask any parent: routine is paramount for a child’s well-being. Luckily, there’s an easy fix. While their physical home environment has been uprooted, maintaining consistent routines can offset some of that disruption. Think regular mealtimes (even if it means a takeaway or two initially), the usual bedtime, and plenty of family time.
Plan the move during school holidays
Moving timelines are notoriously unpredictable. But if you can, plan the move during school holidays to minimise disruption. This limits the impact on children’s education. However, it also allows children the chance to explore and feeds the excitement of added involvement. Timing your move thoughtfully can make moving house an adventure.
Set up children’s rooms first
Yes, the kitchen is a priority (especially if you’re to keep mealtimes running like clockwork). However, always aim to set up children’s rooms first; it creates an immediate safe space. Unpacking a new home can feel incredibly chaotic, and a bedroom provides solace and comfort.
Where possible, allow your child to take the lead, personalising and arranging belongings as they see fit. When setting up a new bedroom for your child, those prized belongings and chances for self-expression help create a sense of familiarity.
Explore the new neighbourhood together
Whether it’s an old Victorian terrace or glitzy new build, carve out time to explore your new neighbourhood as a family. Find local parks, cafes for ‘special treats’, cosy indoor libraries, and any relevant clubs your child might enjoy.
The good news? While, historically, new estates could feel a little sterile, there is increasing residence input for the development of new homes. There’s a reinvestment in community-led designs and layouts; find the parts of your new neighbourhood that your children will love.
Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful with children. Proactively tackle moving day wobbles, prevention is the best protection.
