Moving With Children: Useful Hints And Tips
Posted on 03/04/2014
The process of moving house with children can be far more complicated than moving without them. Not only do you face a number of additional practical things to take into consideration, but it is also important to keep your children informed throughout the process to avoid confusion when moving day arrives.Planning aheadPlanning ahead is always important when it comes to moving, but no more so than when children are involved. Nurseries and schools are the first consideration, and should be taken into account when choosing the location of your new home. Once your location is finalised, it is then important to ensure that you plan as much of your move as possible in advance. Although it’s not always feasible to plan every aspect of your move, you can ensure that you have as much control as possible. Begin by organising which items you’re taking and what needs to be put into self-storage. It is then important to consider packing materials, the hiring of removal services in advance and travel arrangements on the day. It can also be beneficial to plan your children’s day in advance, ensuring that they are safe and entertained throughout. This may involve speaking to family or friends to request help on the day, or even planning toilet breaks if you have to travel far to get to your new home.Involving your childrenChildren may find the concept of a move easier if they are involved in the process. Even from the very beginning, children can be included in the search for a new home and may find it exciting to choose their new room beforehand.Kids can also be involved in the process during the packing stage. By making packing a fun activity that includes everyone, children may feel less isolated and confused about the changes. They may also enjoy the process of sorting through old toys and games to decide what they want to take with them to their new home. The move – keeping it positiveWhen moving day arrives it is important to keep the event positive, ensuring that children remain entertained throughout. If friends or family can look after them for the day then it may be easier to avoid involving them in the stress of the move. However, if this is not an option then it’s important to plan some form of entertainment in advance. For older children, simply getting involved in the move may be enough to keep them busy. Have them help you move items to the removal van, or help you search the house for anything you may have left behind. Younger children might benefit from portable films or games that can keep them out of your way while heavy items are being loaded into the van.If the journey to your new home is a long one, it may be beneficial to plan stops in advance. This will give you the opportunity to stock up on travel food supplies and will break up the journey for the children. It may also be useful to plan for your arrival; if you want your children to keep out of the way while you organise your furniture it is important to plan further entertainment in advance. However, it may be equally beneficial to ensure that your children have their items in their rooms as soon as possible, giving them the chance to familiarise themselves with their new surroundings while you unpack the rest of your possessions.