Long distance moving is no picnic, add kids to the mix and it can be nearly unbearable. Between packing, selling or giving away, to making the living arrangements, and all of life’s responsibilities, the long distance move is quite a project. To help minimize the stress, ease some burdens and hopefully make your long distance a lot easier on you, we at Yaacovzon Movers have compiled some tips to make your move more pleasant for and the little ones.
How Do You Make Moving Less Stressful for Kids?
1. Involve them in finding the new house. If possible, take the little kids with you to narrow your search down as you go house hunting. Show them backyard, which room could potentially be theirs, and so on. If they cannot go with you in person, show them pictures online and excite them into the new adventure. Generally children a nervous around change, especially the school age kids, getting them geared towards the positive can help make the transition. While you are showing the home via online or in person, you can try and show them the local school, parks and libraries, along with extra circular activities that can make them feel more at ease.
2. Encourage them to sort out their stuff. As many folks know, it is a great benefit to sift through the contents of every room and discard, donate, or even sell off some unwanted items. Let the kids be more involved with their own stuff. Tell them to go through toys and clothes. Clothes that don’t fir and are in good condition should be saved for a yard sell or donated, toys can be sold or donated as well if a child has outgrown the age appropriate.
3. Let them help. Younger kids can contribute to lighter stuff; older kids can help with heavier things, find tasks suited for their age and allow them to help them pack up the house. If you decide to have a yard sell, let them help out with that as well so they are more involved with the process and don’t feel like they are neglected during this busy time. It will also help minimize the melt downs they throw for attention.
4. More on moving day. The little toddler age kids might be better off with a sitter, but the kids old enough to take direction and up can assist with thee moving day chores. Carrying light boxes, labeling, cleaning, or putting them in charge of the family pet can help them and you get through the day. Try to throw in some fun activities to keep their interest.
5. Create some crafts. Help the kids fashion their own personal address book for their close friends. Include a spot for friend’s name, phone number, email, and home address and maybe even a wallet size photo so they can keep in touch.
A scrap book of their old house and such can be a good idea as well.
6. Get the energy out before the long trip. During all the busyness of moving, consider taking some time into making a fun day or evening where the family spends time together having fun and releasing the anxiety and built up energy.
7. Road trip. If the kids are driving to the new destination, make sure to make the car ride enjoyable. Pack their favorite snacks and drinks, a few hand held games, and a pillow for when they need to rest. Ensure they wear comfortable clothes and shoes to make the long trip a little more relaxing.
8. Make unpacking fun. To add to the element of fun in unpacking sneak a t-shirt in their clothing box, or a new little toy in another of their personal boxes to prevent the unpacking process from getting boring.
Local & Long Distance, Residential & Commercial Moving in Alexandria, Fairfax & Leesburg, VA | Rockville, Gaithersburg & Bethesda, MD | Washington DC
We hope this helps make your long distance move a little more smooth and the little ones more at ease. Yaacovzon Movers has the experience and skills to pack, load, drive, and unload your home quickly and efficiently. Call us today to schedule your long distance moving package!
