Relocating to a new home can be an exciting chapter, full of fresh opportunities. But for children, a move often brings uncertainty, emotional upheaval, and disruption to their familiar routines. Whether you’re moving across London or further afield, helping your child adapt to a new environment is just as important as packing boxes or hiring a moving company.
At Best London Removals Ltd, we understand the unique challenges families face when relocating. With over a decade of experience supporting household moves, we understand that a smooth transition for your children can set the tone for a happy, settled home.
In this article, we share practical, compassionate strategies to make moving with children less stressful—and even enjoyable—for the whole family.
Communicate early and involve them in the process
Open and honest communication is crucial from the very beginning. Talk to your children about the upcoming move, explaining the reasons in an age-appropriate manner. Let them know what to expect and encourage them to express any worries or questions they have.
- Be Specific and Positive: Instead of just saying “we’re moving,” highlight the exciting aspects. “We’re moving to a house with a bigger garden where you can play!” or “There’s a great park near our new home!”
- Visual Aids: For younger children, look at pictures of the new house or neighbourhood online. Draw a simple map showing where their new room will be.
- Give Them a Job: Involve them in small decisions, like choosing the colour for their new room or deciding what toys go into their “essentials” box. This gives them a sense of control.
Explore the new neighbourhood together
- Scavenger Hunt: Turn the exploration into a fun game! Create a simple scavenger hunt list for things to find in the new neighbourhood, such as a red postbox, a swing set, or a specific type of tree.
- Find Key Places: Point out important landmarks like the nearest shop, the library, or their new school. Knowing where these places are will make the new area feel less intimidating.
- Meet the Neighbours (if possible): If you know anyone in the new area, a quick, casual introduction can help build a sense of community for your child.
Maintain Familiar Routines and Rituals
- Consistency is Key: Stick to regular mealtimes, bedtime stories, and special family activities even amidst the chaos of packing and unpacking.
- Transitional Objects: Emphasise the importance of their favourite blanket, teddy bear, or a special book as “moving buddies” that will come with them to the new home.
- “Same But Different”: Acknowledge that some things will be new, but reassure them that core family values and activities will remain. For example, “Our new kitchen will be different, but we’ll still have pizza night every Friday!”
Pack an "Essentials" Box for Each Child
To ease the transition, pack a clearly labelled “essentials” box for each child.
What to include:
- Comfort Items: Their favourite toys (yes, Lego is a great idea!), books, a special blanket, or a cherished stuffed animal.
- Daily Necessities: A change of clothes, pyjamas, toothbrush, and any medication they might need immediately upon arrival.
- Entertainment: A few favourite small games, drawing supplies, or a tablet with pre-loaded shows/games for quiet time during unpacking.
Having these familiar belongings readily available will provide a sense of security and make the new environment feel more like home to them right away.
Prioritise Setting Up Their Rooms
Upon arrival at the new home, make setting up your children’s rooms a top priority. This is their personal sanctuary in the new house.
Involve Them in Design: Let them help decide where their bed goes or where their toys will be stored. Even small choices give them ownership.
Unpack Their Box First: Get their essentials box open and help them arrange their favourite items. Seeing their familiar belongings in their new space will make it feel welcoming.
Make it “Theirs”: Before the movers even arrive, if possible, consider painting their room their favourite colour or having a special poster ready to put up. Little touches can make a big difference.
Additional Strategies for a Smoother Transition
Saying Goodbye to the Old Home: Allow your children to properly say goodbye to their old home. This could involve walking through each room, taking photos, or even having a small “farewell” gathering with friends. Acknowledging their feelings about leaving is important for moving forward.
Connect with New Friends: Once settled, help them connect with other children in the neighbourhood or at their new school. Arrange playdates, join local clubs, or visit nearby playgrounds. Building new friendships is crucial for their social adjustment.
Be Patient and Understanding: Adjustment takes time. Your child might express sadness, frustration, or even anger. Validate their feelings, offer reassurance, and let them know it’s okay to miss their old home and friends.
Model a Positive Attitude: Children often mirror their parents’ emotions. If you approach the move with enthusiasm and a positive outlook, your children are more likely to do the same.
Moving with kids requires careful planning, empathy, and consideration to ensure a smooth adjustment to their new home.
At Best London Removals Ltd, we recognise the unique challenges families face during this process. By implementing these strategies, fostering open communication, exploring the neighbourhood together, maintaining consistent routines, packing essentials boxes, prioritising their rooms, and offering ongoing support, you can help your children embrace their new environment with confidence.
Contact us today to discover how we can make your family’s move easier. If there’s anything you’re unsure about or need advice on, we’re always happy to help.
