Moving is never easy—but throw young children into the mix, and it becomes an emotional and logistical rollercoaster. From unexpected meltdowns to misplaced stuffed animals, every parent knows that the key to a successful move is keeping kids calm, involved, and, yes—even excited.
Whether you’re relocating across town or to a new state, these proven tips will help make your move smoother for the whole family.
1. Stick to Routines Whenever Possible
Children thrive on routine, especially when their surroundings feel chaotic. As much as you can, keep regular mealtimes, nap schedules, and bedtime rituals in place.
Pro Tip: If your child’s bed is already packed, grab their favorite storybook and recreate storytime on a cozy blanket. Familiar routines offer comfort, even in new or temporary spaces.
2. Make a Moving-Day “Kid Kit”
Think of this as your child’s personal survival bag for moving day. Pack a backpack or small box with:
- Favorite snacks
- Coloring books or small toys
- Tablet or iPad with headphones
- One or two beloved stuffed animals
- A cozy blanket or pillow
Important: Keep this kit with you—don’t load it onto the moving truck. Having a few familiar comforts on hand can be a total game-changer during the chaos.
3. Get the Kids Involved (Really!)
Let your children “help” with the move in age-appropriate ways. You’ll be surprised how excited they’ll be to pitch in.
- Toddlers can decorate their boxes with stickers
- Older kids can pack their own toys and check off simple task lists
- Let them choose which toys stay out and which go into storage
Giving children a role makes them feel included and gives them a much-needed sense of control.
4. Hype Up the New Home
Talk about the new home often—and make it sound exciting! Show pictures, share cool facts about the neighborhood, or take a drive to the area if it’s nearby.
Bonus Tip: Read children’s books about moving. Stories like “The Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day” or “Big Ernie’s New Home” help normalize the experience and reduce anxiety.
5. Prepare for a New School in Advance
If a school switch is part of the move, give your child time to adjust mentally:
- Talk openly about the transition
- Arrange a virtual tour or ask for a welcome packet
- Reach out to local parents through community groups or school social media pages
The more familiar the new environment feels, the easier the emotional transition will be.
6. Use Storage to Simplify the Move
If you’re downsizing—or just want to avoid clutter—short-term storage can be a smart move. Consider storing:
- Seasonal toys or outdoor gear
- Furniture that won’t fit right away
- Baby items your child has outgrown
This gives you more space to settle into your new home without the added pressure of organizing everything at once.
Moving with kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning, a lot of patience, and a few clever tricks, you can turn a potentially stressful experience into an exciting family adventure.
Looking for help with your move? Trust professionals who understand the importance of a family-friendly moving process
At Movers Not Shakers, we understand that moving with young children isn’t just about boxes and trucks—it’s about keeping your family comfortable every step of the way. As trusted residential movers in New York, we go the extra mile to make your transition smooth, stress-free, and even kid-friendly. From flexible scheduling to compassionate crews, we’ve got your back.
Ready to move with less stress and more smiles? Contact us today to get started on your family’s next big adventure.
