A Guide to Preparing Children for Your Move

Looking to make your upcoming move easier for your children? Here’s a practical guide to help your kids transition smoothly to their new home.

Understanding Your Child’s Perspective

While adults often focus on the benefits of relocation—like career advancement or a larger home—children see things differently. They primarily worry about leaving behind familiar surroundings, friends, and routines. The younger the child, the more challenging it can be for them to understand the long-term benefits of moving.

Setting the Right Tone

Your attitude toward the move will directly influence how your children perceive it. If you approach the relocation as an exciting adventure filled with new opportunities, your children are more likely to adopt a similar outlook. Children naturally mirror their parents’ emotions, so maintaining a positive, enthusiastic attitude about the move can make a significant difference.

Communication is Key

Regular, age-appropriate conversations about the move help reduce anxiety and build excitement:

Explain the process: Walk your children through what’s happening step by step
Share the “why”: Help them understand the family benefits in terms they can grasp
Listen to concerns: Give them space to express their worries and validate their feelings
Highlight positives: Focus on exciting aspects like being closer to grandparents, new activities, or special features of the new area

Addressing the “What About Me?” Question

Children naturally wonder how changes will affect them personally. Here’s how to help.

Do Your Research

Investigate schools, parks, and recreational facilities in your new area
Look up youth sports leagues, art classes, or other activities your child enjoys
Find local libraries, museums, and family-friendly attractions

Involve Your Children

Use the internet together to explore your new community
Let them help choose between activity options when appropriate
Show them photos and videos of their new neighborhood
If possible, take a preliminary visit to explore together

Make Connections Early

Reach out to schools or activity groups before moving
Arrange virtual meetups with potential classmates or teammates
Join online parent groups to connect with families in your new area
Consider pen pal arrangements with children in similar age groups

Professional Moving Support

Partnering with experienced movers can significantly reduce stress for the whole family. BMS Moving & Storage specializes in stress-free moving solutions, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time. Their professional teams handle the logistics, allowing you to focus on supporting your children through the transition.

Practical Tips for Moving Day

Create a special “moving day” bag with favorite toys and comfort items
Maintain routines as much as possible
Let children help with age-appropriate packing tasks
Take photos of your current home for memory books
Plan a special “goodbye” ritual for your old home
Make the first night in your new home special with a fun family activity

Remember That Patience is Essential

Every child adjusts at their own pace. Some may embrace the change immediately, while others need more time. By maintaining open communication, staying positive, and providing consistent support, you can help transform what might seem scary into an exciting family adventure.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful for your children. With thoughtful preparation and the right approach, you can turn this major life change into an opportunity for growth and new experiences that your family will remember fondly for years to come.

Let BMS Handle the Heavy Lifting While You Focus on Family

Moving with children requires extra care and attention to detail. That’s where BMS Moving & Storage comes in. Our experienced teams understand the unique challenges of family relocations and work to minimize disruption to your daily routines.