Practical tips for moving with little ones and making the transition easier for them.
With a little extra organization, even toddlers and preschoolers can have a smooth transition to a new location. Here are some ideas from parents who know:
Susan Miller, the author of After the Boxes Are Unpacked, created two checklists to help families who need to move. The first is a “Countdown to a Hassle-Free Move” and the second is a checklist for “International Moves.” Whether you have young children or school-age kids, these two checklists will help you get organized for your next move.
—T.F. Edwords
Over the past three years, we have moved twice with
toddlers. Through our experiences, we discovered some practical tips to
make the transition easier for little ones.
—Monica Faith Vernot
As a military family, we’ve moved many times. When my daughters were little, I talked to them about each move before it happened. When possible, I showed them pictures of our new home and talked about fun children’s activities in the area. While focusing on new adventures we would have, I also let them know it was OK to feel sad or anxious.
On moving day, I helped my girls write their names on boxes that contained their belongings. This gave them something to watch for when our stuff was delivered. I assured the girls that all our belongings would eventually arrive at our new house.
My girls also kept special treasures with them for reassurance. Putting these smaller items in the car ahead of time ensured that they wouldn’t accidentally get packed away in boxes.
Preparing our children helped ease their fears, and together we’ve learned that home is wherever our family is.
—Lindsay Tallman
Articles by “Family Stages: Early Years” are shorter articles that have been compiled by the Focus on the Family Thriving Family editors on a single topic.
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