Things to Consider When Moving Your Family with Children

Relocating to a new home is always a significant event, but moving with children can feel even more challenging. Kids thrive on stability and routine, so a move can be exciting and overwhelming. To ensure a smooth transition for the entire family, consider your children’s needs at every stage. Below, we’ve outlined key things to consider when moving your family with children.

1. Involve Your Kids in the Process

Children may feel a loss of control when faced with the idea of leaving their home, friends, and familiar surroundings. To help ease their anxiety, include them in the moving process as much as possible:

• Discuss the move with your kids early and explain why it’s happening.
• Show them pictures or videos of the new house and neighborhood to help them visualize their new environment.
• If feasible, bring older children along when touring potential homes or visiting schools in the area.
• Allow them to help pack their belongings and decide how to set up their new room.

This involvement can help kids feel more included and connected to the move, making the experience less daunting.

2. Research Schools and Educational Opportunities

One of the biggest concerns for families moving with children is finding the right school. Researching schools in your new area should be a top priority. Consider these factors:

• School Ratings and Reputation: Look into academic performance and parent reviews to gauge the quality of local schools.
• Extracurricular Activities: If your child enjoys sports, drama, or art, check what each school offers regarding extracurricular programs.
• Proximity: How far is the school from your new home? Is it easily accessible on foot, by car, or via public transportation?
• Specialized Needs: If your child has specific educational needs, ensure the school you choose can accommodate them.

It may also be useful to reach out to school administrators or other parents in the community for insights.

3. Plan the Move Around Your Child’s Schedule

Timing is crucial when relocating with children, especially if they’re in the middle of a school term or other important commitments. Ideally, plan your move to minimize disruptions:

• School Breaks are a convenient transition time, allowing your child to adjust before starting a new school.
• Consider sports seasons, exams, or other big events when setting the move date.
• Younger children, like toddlers, might benefit from a move timed around their nap and meal schedules.

By aligning your plans with your child’s existing routines, you can keep the experience less stressful for everyone.

4. Find Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Choosing the right neighborhood is as important as selecting the right home, especially for families. Look for communities that cater to families with children by considering:

• Parks and Playgrounds: Check for nearby spaces for children to play and socialize.
• Community Activities: See if the area hosts events like farmers’ markets, festivals, or youth sporting leagues.
• Low Crime Rates: Safety is often the top priority for families. Research crime statistics for the areas you’re considering.
• Nearby Amenities: Family-friendly businesses such as pediatricians, daycare centers, and after-school programs nearby can make life easier.

A welcoming and family-oriented community can make the move positive for children and adults.

5. Prepare Them for Saying Goodbye

Leaving behind friends, teachers, and familiar places can be one of the hardest parts of moving for a child. Give them time and space to process their feelings, and support them as they say goodbye:

• Organize a small farewell party where they can spend quality time with their friends.
• Encourage them to exchange contact information with friends so they can stay in touch.
• Create a scrapbook or memory box of their favorite things about their old home and neighborhood.

Acknowledging their emotions and providing closure can help them feel ready to move forward.

6. Create Excitement About Their New Home

Turning the focus to the positive aspects of the move can help your children feel excited about the change. Highlight the fun opportunities that await them:

• Show them pictures of their new room and discuss how they’d like to decorate it.
• Talk about nearby attractions, such as amusement parks, beaches, or hiking trails.
• Explore any new hobbies or activities they might try in the new area.

By framing the move as a new adventure, you can help your child approach the experience with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Final Thoughts

Moving your family with children takes careful planning and consideration, but it can be a rewarding experience with the right strategies in place. You can make the transition seamless by involving your kids, maintaining routines, and finding a supportive community.

If you’re planning a move soon, give me a call, I can help! I will put my years of real estate experience to work for you, Kim Shaw (928) 710-9148.