We recently moved home with 3 kids under 4, including a 6 month old baby. It was chaotic to say the least, but at least the move was fairly local.
As a mom, you know that moving with kids can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the process as smooth as possible for your family.

I found some ways to help the process run more efficiently. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Road trip together to your new home
Moving to a new home can be an exciting but sometimes stressful experience for the whole family. However, parents can make the transition easier on their kids by using a combination of strategies when possible.
One strategy to consider is riding together in one car to your new home. Car shipping companies have become increasingly affordable and you can get car shipping quotes to compare costs, so if you have two vehicles, consider shipping one car to your new destination for extra convenience.
Doing this can make it more fun for kids, relying on them less often to unload the car and take frequent stops along the way. The combination of comfort and entertainment that comes with a car ride will greatly ease the stress of moving day for everyone involved.
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2. Get the kids involved in the packing process for your move
Getting the kids involved can make moving more enjoyable for everyone. Involving children in the packing process can help provide structure, focus and a feeling of ownership over the move.
Allow them to make packing decisions based on their own interests – for example, let them choose which books go into each box and what decorations should be used in their new bedrooms. By making your children a part of the process, they’re sure to find it both interesting and rewarding.
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3. Label all of your boxes with pictures or symbols
Moving house is one of the most stressful experiences, especially when there are kids involved. All too often our children’s belongings are forgotten or misplaced in a new home and it only adds to an already demanding situation.
To avoid any chaos, remember to label all of your boxes with either drawings, symbols or words so that the kids know exactly where everything belongs once you arrive at the new house.

Not only will this help ease their anxiety by making them feel more in control but also save on time when it comes to unpacking, so everyone can start settling into their new place sooner and have more fun doing it!
4. Make sure not to pack their favorite toys or stuffed animals
Moving can be a stressful experience for children, especially if they have to leave their beloved toys and stuffed animals behind. To make sure that your little one stays comforted during the relocation, be sure to include some of their favorite possessions in the moving boxes.
Having their security items by their side will reduce their apprehension and let them know that you are always available to help them feel at home no matter where you go.
Not to mention, having a few of their favorite toys readily accessible is also great for keeping them entertained on long rides or when waiting in line at your new place. Keep them smiling by reminding them of the fun things that make up their life.
5. Have a special treat for your kids on moving day, like ice cream or a movie night
Show your kids how much you appreciate their patience and understanding throughout the entire process by having a special treat for them.
Something like homemade ice cream or a movie night will make them feel extra special and excited about the upcoming move. Not only that, it’s sure to give everyone in the family plenty of smiles and laughs to take away from the long day of packing and hauling boxes!
6. Let them help unpack their own room once you get settled into the new house
Moving into a new house can be an exciting experience for kids! To make it even more enjoyable, why not let them help out when it comes time to unpack their own bedroom?

Not only is it good practice for developing organizational skills and understanding of the importance of order and categorization; but it also gives them a sense of ownership over decorating their own room from the get-go. This can give children a way to express themselves and make their bedroom space uniquely theirs.
In addition, if they took part in the packing process of the move, unpacking will create a sense of accomplishment upon being reunited with all their belongings.
7. Spend extra time bonding with your kids during this transition
It can be intimidating for children to make a move, especially if they are younger. During this transition period of moving, being intentional with quality time with your kids will help them feel secure and supported.

Take the time to listen to their concerns and answer their questions honestly. Consider carving out some extra bonding time by engaging in activities together, like visiting the local park or painting a canvas as a family.
Be sure to honor any requests your children may have for items that help make a new house feel more like home. Doing so will create an environment where your kids can express themselves freely and build confidence in the new home you’re creating together.
Moving can be a tough time for kids, but there are ways to make it easier on them. By involving them in the packing process and being prepared with some of their favorite things, you can help ease their anxiety and make them excited for the move.
On moving day, take some time to celebrate with them and then let them have fun unpacking their own room. This is a big change for everyone, so spend extra time bonding as a family during this transition period.
Marissa is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist turned stay-at-home mom who loves sharing her tips, tricks, and ideas for navigating motherhood. Her days are filled starting tickle wars and dance parties with three energetic toddlers and wondering how long she can leave the house a mess until her husband notices. When she doesn’t have her hands full of children, she enjoys a glass (or 3) of wine, reality tv, and country music. In addition to blogging about all things motherhood, she sells printables on Etsy and has another website, teachinglittles.com, for kid’s activity ideas.