Moving Tips That Help the Whole Family Adjust

A move is challenging enough when it's just you, but moving with kids or pets makes the experience even more daunting. Our real estate agents suggest following these tips to make moving as easy as possible for the whole family. 

• Help Them Understand What to Expect
  Children may have a lot of concerns when they learn that they're moving; explaining to them what they can expect during the move can alleviate their worries. Give them ample notice about the move. Ideally, you should discuss moving with them when you start looking at Richmond homes for sale or when moving becomes a likely possibility for your family. Explain to your kids what will happen during the move and how their stuff will be safely transported to their new home. 

• Gather Moving Day Essentials
  Have your kids set aside any items that they want to keep with them during the move, like special toys or favorite stuffed animals, along with clothing and personal care items. They should also pick out a few activities to keep themselves entertained, like art supplies, a game, or a book. If you're moving with pets, assemble a moving kit for each pet that includes a leash or crate, food, a water and food bowl, toys, bedding, and anything else you might need to keep them comfortable.

• Include Your Kids in the Move
  Children like to feel included, and moving is no exception. See that your kids feel included in the move by showing them pictures of their new rooms or even taking them to see their new home in person. Invite your children to brainstorm how they want to set up or decorate their new spaces. Encourage them to learn about their new neighborhood or city and find activities that they want to participate in or places they want to visit. 

• Have Children Go Through Their Stuff Before Packing
  Suggest to your kids that they go through their stuff and get rid of items that they no longer use or want. This will reduce the amount of stuff that they have to pack and ensure that unnecessary clutter isn't transported to your new house. 

• Host a See You Later Party
  A See You Later party is an opportunity for kids to say "see you later" to their friends and exchange contact info (like phone numbers, email addresses, or whatever you're comfortable with them using). You can also take a few photos of your children and their friends so that they'll have recent photographs to put up in their room. 

• Recruit Help for the Move
  Whether you're handling the move yourself or outsourcing the job, there's a lot that needs to be done on moving day. Consider arranging an outing with a friend, recruiting a family member, or hiring a babysitter to get your kids out of the house and keep them entertained. This also applies to pets; with so many people entering and exiting your home, this can make moving a stressful experience. You might see if your pets can stay with a friend for a day or two or even utilize a pet daycare service. 

With a little planning and preparation, it's possible to minimize moving-related stress for the whole family. Ready to start searching for your next home? Contact us today!