Moving house can be one of the most stressful life events that an individual will experience and so when young children are involved, this only adds to an already challenging situation. Although there will no doubt be some tears and tantrums along the way, there are some steps you can take to settle your little one into their new home with as little disruption as possible.
Tip 1. Involve Them…
In order for the moving process to run as smoothly as possible, it is important for young children to understand what is happening and to feel involved. It can be upsetting for children to see their possessions being packed up and taken away and so by speaking to them and explaining what is happening, the child will see the move as something exciting, rather than something to worry about. However, to avoid a constant barrage of questions (and an inevitable headache) it may be wise to have these conversations with your inquisitive youngster, only when you begin nearing the official moving date.
Tip 2. Ask For Help…
With a child on your hands, an average day can be hectic so ‘moving day’ can be truly bonkers. Subsequently, the run up to the big day is the ideal time to reach out to friends and family and to take advantage of their previous generous offers to babysit. Not only will this give you a chance to make a start on your unpacking without having to keep a young child entertained, you may also choose to take the opportunity to treat yourself to a moment of silence.
However, if this is not an option and you are struggling to think of ways to keep a rather excitable toddler entertained, turn packing into a game and ask them to find the items that you want to pack, ask them to decorate the moving boxes with crayon art or donate one spare box to create a child-friendly den.
In addition, when the long-awaited day has finally arrived, you may choose to hire a professional moving company to assist you with the removal and transportation of your possessions. Not only will this save you time, but you will enter your new home more relaxed, stress-free and (hopefully) with a few less grey hairs!
Tip 3. Pack Smart
After spending days packing up your possessions, the last thing you want to do is spend an hour trying to find cutlery with a hungry toddler in tow. To save your toddler (and yourself) much unwanted stress, it is a good idea to leave packing your child’s items until last; likewise, ensure that their possessions are unpacked first when you arrive at your new home as your toddler is likely to be eager to get back to their normal routine.
Tip 4. Stay Positive…
Most importantly, make sure that your child understands that moving house is a positive event and something to be excited about; by allowing your child to be involved in the process, your experience of moving house will hopefully be somewhat calmer, with fewer tantrums of confusion along the way (at least until bedtime)!
Written by Gabriella Vianello – Executive Assistant at Alchemy Global Talent Solutions