Moving can be a daunting experience, especially when you have little ones in tow. If you’re a parent who has navigated the chaos of relocating with small children—often without their favorite toys and books accessible—you deserve a break. Picture this: a week at a serene spa, where attentive staff take care of your kids while you unwind and let a skilled masseuse relieve the tension in your back. Trust me, you’ve earned it.
And if you’re also juggling a pregnancy during this whirlwind, consider yourself crowned queen for the day. If you’re uprooting your family not only from one home to another but also changing schools and communities, I bow to your strength. You deserve all the pampering and support the universe can offer.
For those preparing for a big move, here are some tried-and-true strategies from someone who has experienced the moving process more than once. Since my first child entered the world nearly 12 years ago and her younger sister followed just four years later, we’ve relocated multiple times: twice within Washington, D.C., once cross-country to Los Angeles, a brief move within the same city, and then back across the country to the suburbs of New York. (Why? That’s a story for another day.) Here are my hard-won insights:
- Arrange for Childcare: Recruit help, no matter who it is—your well-meaning sister who has no idea how to entertain kids, your mother-in-law who loves rearranging furniture, or your college buddy. It doesn’t matter as long as they can keep an eye on your little ones while you manage the move. This support is crucial before, during, and after the transition. If you can afford it, factor in hiring a babysitter into your moving budget.
- Set Up Utilities Ahead of Time: Don’t make the mistake I did by failing to schedule essential services like cable, phone, and internet before moving. Kids often rely on familiar shows or games for comfort during transitions. So, as soon as you sign that lease, reach out to service providers like Verizon or Time Warner. Schedule appointments for the day after your move-in date, even if the moving truck won’t arrive for a week. It’ll save you from the frustration of being without essential services.
- Declutter Ruthlessly: Use this move as an opportunity to part with items you no longer need. Separate the essential from the unnecessary—if it’s junk, toss it; if it’s usable but unwanted, donate it; and if it belongs to someone else, return it. This will save you money and time in the long run, ensuring a fresh start in your new home.
- Plan for Pet Relocation: Moving with pets can be nerve-wracking. After conducting thorough research, I found a reliable service at petrelocation.com that ensured our elderly dog was safely transported across the country. They provided updates throughout the journey and even delivered her directly to our new home, making the experience as smooth as possible.
- Visit the New School: Always tour your child’s new school before their first day—without them, if possible. Meet the principal, inquire about teachers, and learn about special programs that might interest your child. Familiarity will help ease their transition. A second visit with your kids will help alleviate any first-day jitters.
- Accept Offers of Help from Neighbors: During our last move, I was pleasantly surprised when our new neighbors offered to entertain my kids with pizza and a movie while we unpacked. Don’t hesitate to accept assistance. It’s a great way to start building a community.
- Unpack Quickly: Resist the urge to unpack a little at a time. Instead, commit to getting everything sorted as soon as possible. The faster you establish your home, the quicker your family will feel settled. Start with essential items like beds and bathroom supplies, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can make your new place feel like home.
- Keep a List on Your Phone: Create a digital list of important contacts, local services, and essential information. This will help you keep track of everything you need—from local plumbers to babysitters. Don’t forget to back this list up in your email for easy access.
- Anticipate the Adjustment Period: Understand that it may take a year for your family to feel completely at home in your new surroundings. It’s normal to feel a bit out of sorts. Reassure your children—and yourself—that friendships and familiarity will develop over time.
- Celebrate with a Housewarming Party: Don’t forget to acknowledge this significant change in your life. Host a housewarming gathering to celebrate your new beginning. Invite neighbors and friends, serve some food and drinks (including juice boxes for the kids), and take the time to enjoy your new space.
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Moving may be a challenge, but with careful planning and a bit of help, you can make the process smoother for both you and your children.