Kids Moving Checklist

Many children do not like change, especially when that change involves moving to a new place where they will have to make new friends. Moving to a new state or even across the same state can be stressful for them. Use our Kids Moving Checklist below to help your children quickly adjust to the idea of the move, as well as to their new neighborhood and home.

 

☐     Research and plan trips to the local parks and children attractions in your new destination. Give your children something to be excited about.

☐    Get to know your neighbors with children and get your children together so they can get a head start on making friends before their first day at their new school.

☐     Make moving day special with special snacks, treats, and drinks. Keep the kids occupied with a movie or their favorite activity. Young children may need a babysitter to keep them out of trouble on moving day, but ensure it is someone they already know and like.

☐     Set aside items the children will need so they are not packed, like medications, a change of clothes, favorite toys, and other personal items. Better yet, pack a special activity bag just for moving day as well. Include anything your children like and that will keep them busy while you pack, move, and clean.

☐     Allow them to assist so they feel like they have some control. They can write their names on their own boxes and even decorate them.

☐     Have your children take and print pictures of their friends and neighbors to take with them to your new home. Make sure that contact information has been exchanged so they can keep in touch.

☐     Put your children in charge of the pets. When children are comforting animals and introducing them to a new environment, the focus is not on their own discomfort.

☐     Give the children’s rooms priority when setting up the house so they feel at home as soon as possible after the move.