Moving With Kids

Discuss the Move

No matter the reason for your move, it's important to prepare your kids by talking about it. Kids will want and need different information depending on their age. For instance, acting out a story with toys may help a toddler, while a teenager may respond to the idea of the move being practice for adulthood.

Plan for a New School

To avoid any glitches that could add to your child's stress, gather information the new school may need. This may include recent report cards or transcripts, birth certificate, and medical records.

Start Planning Their New Space

Take pictures of their new room and let them start planning where their bed will go and what their new room might look like. Get them excited for the future.

Read Books About Moving

There are several children's books available that can help prepare kids for their upcoming move. Moving books for kids include The Berenstain Bears' Moving Day, by Stan and Jan Berenstain (for little kids), and Maybe Yes, Maybe No, Maybe Maybe, by Susan Patron, (for older children).

Make a Memory Book

Give your child a camera or a smartphone and let them take pictures of your house, friends, school and other favorite spots. Compile them all into a memory book that your child can take with them.

Let Them Pack a “Moving Day" Box

The day of the move is going to be busy and stressful. Let your kids pick out a few special items to carry with them during the drive. And remember to include the essentials. You don't want to get on the road only to realize your child's comfort toy is in a box in the back of the truck.

Find Some New Friends

If your child is a member of a scouting or sports organization that has chapters around the country, you may be able to make connections before you move. Find the group that your child will be joining and contact them ahead of time. Maybe you can find some pen pals in your new town.

Keep Kids Safe

Moving day is going to be busy and probably a bit confusing. Have a plan to keep your kids safe and out of the way while the truck is being loaded and unloaded. You may want to designate a special “kids zone."

Keep Sharp Objects Out of Reach

Unpacking often involves scissors and other sharp objects. Be sure to keep these items out of reach of young children.

Remember Your Child's Travel Bag

Make sure they have enough snacks, books and games for the trip.

Let Them Unpack First

Help them build their new space and settle in while you get the rest of your new home in order.

Stay Upbeat

This is a big day. Don't let your stress rub off on your kids.