Any move can have its stressful components, but for our young children who make the move with us, there's even more to worry about. Your kids may feel like they don't get a say in any part of the process and may not even understand what's happening, which would be scary for anyone! Children require more reassurance, more creative ways of explaining the relocation, and more safety measures put in place during any household move, local or long distance.

Speak with Them Before the Move

They may not be able to fully grasp the concept of your relocation, but telling your little one in advance that it's happening and talking with them about what it means and what it will look like can help make moving day and transitioning into your new home much easier.

When you have the conversation with your young child, get down onto their level, which probably means sitting or kneeling next to them. Use stories or similar situations to help them understand more easily, and make sure they know that everything will come with—pets, toys, and their bed and blankets.

Give Them What Autonomy You Can

Many kids experiencing anxiety or other difficult emotions around a household relocation may not feel like they're being heard or like they're able to control any part of it. Obviously young children probably shouldn't dictate many details about a move, but allowing them to make some little decisions along the way that will affect them can alleviate some of their frustration and stress.

This can happen before, during and after moving day in a variety of ways, like:

  • Let Them Help Pack Their Own Items
  • Ask Them How They Want to Set Up Their New Room
  • Allow Them to Keep a Favorite Toy with Them on Moving Day
  • Go On a Walk and Explore the Neighborhood

Visit Your New Neighborhood with Your Child Before the Move

Many toddlers experience a fear of the unknown, which is why they can be very resistant to moving houses. One way to help make the transition easier on your toddler is to familiarize them with their new environment ahead of moving day.

Walk down the sidewalk and look at other homes, stop at a neighborhood park to play, or check out the local library—you may even run into other small children with their parents for potential playdates in the future. Not only will your child feel more at ease if they recognize their new surroundings after you officially move in, but it may help them actually feel excited about the move altogether.

Think About Safety on Moving Day

Typically, moving day itself isn't exactly ideal to have young children running around underfoot. It may be in your best interest to hire a babysitter ahead of time to keep an eye on your child—consider asking a family member or friend who can watch them at their house.

Make sure your new residence is toddler-proof before their arrival. With so many items now out in open boxes that are typically kept out of reach, it's not a good idea to have your curious child examining what's inside each box before you've gotten to it.

Some things to consider are:

  • Put Away Cleaning Supplies
  • Don't Stack Boxes Too High
  • Pack First-Aid Kit Separate from Boxes
  • Make a Safe Play Area Before Kids Arrive
  • Keep Scissors, Cords, or Other Dangerous Items Out of Reach

Thomas Transfer and Storage has been the professional moving and storage company that Wichita homeowners rely on for efficient relocations and seamless experiences beginning to end. Since 1945, we've offered customer-driven solutions, such as move coordination plans and full-service packing options for people who have other aspects of their relocation that may require most of their attention—like comforting a toddler. 

Get in touch with Thomas Transfer and Storage today for a free quote on any of our local, long distance, residential and commercial moving services, and hear more about what we can do for you!