Are We There Yet? 3 Tips for Moving with Kids

As much as you love your children, repeated cries of "Are we there yet?" are enough to drive any parent to the brink of screaming "NO!" in frustration. Here are three ideas to help bring you back from the brink when you're moving with kids.

1. Prepare Your Kids for the Move

Talk to your kids about the move. Encourage them to ask questions, express their fears, and even mourn the loss of their friends and their home. Then let them help plan and throw a party to say 'goodbye' to their home, neighborhood, and friends. It's a great way to provide closure to this part of their lives.

2. Leave the Kids' Rooms Until Last

Don't be in a hurry to pack up your kids' room. Preparing to move is chaotic and stressful. You don't want to add to your child's stress by removing everything that's familiar. By leaving your child's room until last, they have a comforting refuge amidst the commotion.

Consider your kid's possessions as important as your coffee maker. After all, you wouldn't pack it until the last minute, would you? Keep everything as normal as possible for your kids and you'll reap the benefits! By starting your trip to your new home with calmer children, you're already a step ahead of the game.

3. Bring These Essentials on the Trip to Your New Home

Your kids will feel less stressed during the move if they have some favorites at hand. Give each child a small bag or backpack of their very own. Let them pack it with their favorite books, small dolls, trip-friendly toys and activities, etc. If there's still room, a favorite small blanket or pillow can provide a little extra comfort during the journey.

A bag like this will help keep a child occupied even if you do the unthinkable and pack all of their toys before the last minute. Oops!

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