How to Help Your Children Adjust to Moving House

Moving house is a big adjustment for any adult, let alone for younger children who may not fully understand what’s happening. They’ll have to contend with a new bedroom, potentially a new school with new friends and the daunting prospect of leaving behind everything they know.

Naturally, any parent will want to ensure this transition goes as smoothly as possible. But how can you help your children adjust to moving house? The team at Simon Long Removals Gloucester are experts in this area and have written this helpful guide.

Keep your children involved

One of the most difficult parts about moving for a child is the lack of control they feel. By involving them in the process, you can get them excited about the move and help them to regain a sense of control. You could ask for their opinion on decor, get them to pack some of their own things or even let them plan the layout of their bedroom – whatever will help your child to feel included.

Try moving during the school holidays

If you’re moving a longer distance and your child is also required to move schools, it’s best to schedule your move during the school holidays if possible. This reduces disruption and means your child gets a clean break and can start fresh with a new term. There’s also the added bonus that you won’t have to leave out all their school stuff when packing – it’s a win-win!

Check out our previous article on the best time to move house here.

Pack toys last

The final days in your old home can be incredibly stressful, with so much to pack, clean and prepare, so the last thing you want is to have restless children on your hands because they can’t get to their favourite toy. By leaving your children’s toys as the last thing that you pack, not only do you keep them occupied until the last minute but this also ensures that they will be the first items off the removal van at the other end.

Keep to a routine

Moving house can be an all-consuming process and it’s only natural that packing and organisation will take up a lot of your spare time. However, for the sake of your children, it’s important to keep to your regular routine as much as possible to prevent disruption. Stick to normal bedtimes and mealtimes – that way, you’ll avoid excitable children staying up for half the night!

Plan fun activities

If your child is feeling apprehensive about this new move, the best way to get them excited is to plan some fun days out in your new area. Find the best local park and take a trip, visit the local library or research attractions nearby – whatever will get them excited and demonstrate what’s on offer in your new neighbourhood.

Take it easy

While it’s important to prioritise your children, don’t forget about your own needs. Your children will feed off your energy, so if you’re visibly tired or stressed then this will rub off on them. So don’t stay up all hours packing and ticking things off your to-do list — try and make sure you’re getting enough sleep and eating properly.

Choose a reliable removal company

To reduce hassle on this already stressful day, it’s essential to choose a reliable removal company. Here at Simon Long Removals Gloucester, we’ll handle all the heavy lifting and unloading, leaving you free to give your full attention to your children. We can even provide a full packing service if you want peace of mind that your belongings are packed in the most secure and efficient way.

If you’re based in Cheltenham, Gloucester or the surrounding area and you’re planning a move with children in tow, get in touch with the friendly team at Simon Long Removals Gloucestershire. Our BAR-accredited experts will take the stress out of your moving day, leaving you free to focus on the things that matter. Whether you’re moving down the road or across the country, we can support you with an efficient, affordable and well-reviewed removals service.