Moving with Kids? Tips for Keeping Your Children Calm and Comfortable During a Move

Moving can be an exciting new chapter, but for children, it can come with confusion, anxiety, and a lot of questions. From saying goodbye to familiar places to adjusting to a new home and routine, the process can be overwhelming without the proper support.

Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, there are thoughtful ways to help your children feel more comfortable, included, and secure throughout the transition. Learn more as we share tips and tricks to ease your moving transition for the entire family. 

Start with Honest, Age-Appropriate Conversations

The sooner you talk to your kids about the move, the more time they’ll have to process the change. Tailor your explanation based on their age and personality.

For younger children, keep it simple and reassuring:

“We’re moving to a new house where we’ll have a bigger yard to play in. All your toys and books are coming with us.”

Older kids and teens may need more details. Give them space to ask questions, express emotions, and even share frustrations. Acknowledge their feelings and emphasize that it’s okay to feel uncertain.

Involve Them in the Process

When kids feel involved, they feel empowered and more invested in the larger task at hand. Even small decisions can help them feel more in control when making a move. 

Here are a few ways to include them:

• Let them help pick paint colors or decorations for their new room
• Give them a special job, like labeling boxes for their toys when packing 
• Share pictures or videos of the new house, school, or neighborhood
• Tour the new area together (virtually or in person) so it feels familiar
• Create a list together of adventures you want to have in your new home
  

Stick to Routines as Much as Possible

Kids thrive on structure, especially during times of change. While moving day will inevitably shake things up, try to keep routines like mealtimes, bedtimes, and screen time consistent in the days before and after the move.

Bringing familiar bedding, nightlights, or toys into the new home immediately can also offer comfort and stability.

Pack a “First Night” Essentials Bag

Having the right items easily accessible can help reduce stress and prevent bedtime meltdowns. Set aside a special bag or box for each child that includes:

• Pajamas and a change of clothes
• Toothbrush and favorite toiletries
• A comfort item (stuffed animal, blanket, or favorite toy)
• Books or activities to wind down before bed
• Snacks and a refillable water bottle
  

This makes bedtime easier and helps your child feel safe and cared for in their new space.

Plan for Moving Day

Moving day can be chaotic. The best plan is to keep the kids safe, occupied, and out of the busiest areas.

Options to consider:

• Arrange childcare or a playdate with a friend or family member
• Create a kid-friendly corner with books, snacks, and quiet activities
• Give older children responsibilities, like checking off labeled boxes as they arrive
  

If you’re working with a professional moving company, make sure they know which boxes belong to the children’s rooms so they can be unloaded first.

Normalize the Transition

Even after the move is complete, expect a period of adjustment. Younger children may become clingy or regress temporarily, while older kids might act out or withdraw.

You can ease the transition by:

• Exploring the neighborhood together (parks, local libraries, schools)
• Setting up playdates or signing up for local activities
• Creating new traditions that give them something to look forward to in the new home
  

Remind your kids that feeling out of place is normal, but that soon, this new house will start to feel like home.

Reassure and Stay Positive

Children pick up on your energy. They’ll feel it too if you’re stressed, rushed, or frustrated. While feeling overwhelmed is normal, try to model calm and confidence.

Talk openly about what you’re excited about. Celebrate small wins, like finding a new ice cream spot or unpacking the first room together. Let your child see that change can lead to new adventures.

Helping Your Whole Family Settle In

Moving with kids takes extra care and consideration, but it’s absolutely manageable with the right approach. Open communication, familiar routines, and a little extra patience can go a long way in helping your children feel safe and supported during a move.

For those planning a move in Northwest Arkansas, Winter Moving & Storage is here to help simplify the process so that you can focus on your family, not the logistics. Contact our team today for your free estimate.