Moving with Kids? How to Turn Chaos into Calm

You know you’ve got kids when moving from one house to another feels like you’re running a marathon with a 100-pound backpack.

That saying? Yeah, it hits the nail on the head.

Moving with kids can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a roller coaster.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

In fact, more than 35 million Americans move every year, and a solid chunk of those moves involve families with kids.

And the stress? It’s real. 

Studies show that 1 in 4 kids experience anxiety during a move, and it’s not just because they’re leaving behind their favorite toys. The whole routine change, leaving friends, and the new environment can really throw them off.

Moving with kids might feel like an uphill battle, but it’s possible to turn that chaotic whirlwind into a calmer ride.

Imagine it: you and your little ones, cruising through the move with a clear plan, a sense of excitement, and maybe even some fun sprinkled in. Sounds too good to be true, right?

Let’s give you the details on how to make that happen.

Step 1: Start Preparing Your Kids Early

The first thing to know? The sooner you talk to your kids about the move, the better. 

Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, they're going to have questions (and probably concerns), and if you wait until the last minute, it's going to get really stressful, really fast.

Start with open communication. We know your little one might not totally understand what moving means, but you can still give them a heads-up.

You can say something like, "Hey, we're going to a new house soon. It's going to be super cool! You'll get to pick out your new room, and we'll have some fun adventures there."

 Keep it light and fun so they don’t feel like it’s a massive thing to worry about.

If you have older kids, they might want more details. Explain why you’re moving, where you're going, and what they can expect. Be honest, but also keep it positive.

If they’re nervous about leaving friends or a familiar school, validate their feelings. Don’t brush them off like, “Oh, you’ll be fine,” instead, say, “I know it’s tough, but we’re going to make it work. We’ll make sure you stay in touch with your friends, and we’ll explore new places together!”

And while you're at it, get them involved in the process. Whether it's packing their toys or picking out a paint color for their new room, it helps them feel a sense of ownership in the move.

While preparing your kids for the move, it's also important to consider how the change might affect their development. Learn about how moving schools can impact your child's growth.

Step 2: Create a Moving Checklist for Families

You know how when you’re doing something big, like moving, it can feel like you’re juggling a thousand things?

The solution is to Make a checklist. 

You'll feel so much more in control, and your stress levels will drop by at least 50%. 

Write down every task — no matter how small and check them off as you go. This will keep you organized and on track, especially with everything going on.

Here's a quick review of what to include:

• Notify the school about the move
• Set up medical records for the kids
• Change address with the post office
• Arrange utilities and internet
• Pack the kids' rooms last (so they have things to play with till the very end)

Step 3: Declutter and Get Rid of Stuff You Don’t Need

The temptation to just throw everything in a box and figure it out later is real. But the less stuff you have to move, the easier the whole process will be.

So now’s your chance to do a major declutter.

Get rid of toys that your kids have outgrown, old clothes that are too small, and anything you haven’t used in ages.

Take your kids along for this. Have them go through their old toys and encourage them to donate items they don’t play with anymore.

Not only does this make the packing process easier, but it also teaches them an important lesson about letting go of things and being generous.

Plus, they might be a little more willing to part with some old stuff if they know it's going to be a good cause.

Step 4: Pack Like a Pro (Without Losing Your Mind)

Okay, now we get to the part that’s guaranteed to drive you nuts: packing. 

Here’s the key: Don’t try to do it all at once.

That's a surefire way to crash and burn. If you can, spread it out over a couple of days or even a week. Give yourself grace.

Now, packing up kids’ rooms can be an emotional experience, especially if you’re packing up their favorite toys or decor.

To help them feel a little more at ease, label everything You can get those packing labels or make your own.

Label the boxes with things like “KID’S ROOM” or "TOYS," and then, if you can, create a separate box for each child's essentials (toys, books, snacks, pajamas, etc.).

That way, when you get to your new place, they’ll have all their favorite things on hand immediately.

Want to pack like a pro? Check out these expert tips on labeling your moving boxes, and stay organized every step of the way!

Step 5: Make Moving Fun for Kids

You can turn moving from a nightmare into a fun adventure if you know how to spin it.

For example, create a moving countdown.

Get a big calendar and mark off each day until moving day with fun little stickers or a picture of the new house.

Kids love that kind of stuff. It gives them something tangible to look forward to.

Let them decorate their moving boxes with fun stickers, doodles, and their names. It’ll keep them busy and give them a sense of ownership over their things.

Plus, when they get to the new house, they’ll already feel a little bit more “at home” seeing their boxes all packed up and ready to go.

And let’s not forget about a little goodbye party. If you’re leaving a neighborhood, organize a small farewell with their friends.

It'll help them say goodbye and make the transition smoother. You don't have to do anything big—a couple of pizzas and some backyard games, and you're good to go.

Step 6: Deal with Children’s Emotions During a Move

Moving is tough on adults, but it can be just as challenging for kids, especially when they’re leaving behind friends, familiar places, and routines.

It's normal for them to be upset, and it’s important to validate their emotions. Don’t tell them to “get over it” or “it’s not a big deal.” Instead, listen and acknowledge how they feel.

If your little one is a toddler, they may not have the words to express themselves, but you can still give them comfort.

Give them extra hugs, stick to their routines, and make sure they have familiar comfort items, like a favorite toy or blanket.

Find out how to help your child cope with moving anxiety and make the transition smoother.

Step 7: Adjust The Kids to a New Home

Once you get to the new house, don’t just get into unpacking. Give your kids some space to explore their new environment.

Let them roam around the house, discover their new rooms, and even decide how they want to decorate or arrange things.

To help with the transition, establish new routines early on. Start a new bedtime story ritual or go for walks around the neighborhood; getting into a routine will give your kids something familiar to hold onto.

And don’t forget to explore the new area together.

You can visit the local parks, the library, and maybe even a new ice cream shop or restaurant.

This helps your kids feel excited about their new surroundings and not like they’re totally disconnected from everything.

Step 8: Best Moving Companies for Families

You probably don’t have the time or energy to pack everything yourself, and that's okay.

Here’s an advice: hiring the best moving company for families can make a world of difference.

A professional moving company can help you with the heavy lifting, packing, and even unpacking.

Some companies even specialize in moves with kids, which offers extra services like childcare or custom moving plans for families.

Do your research and look for movers that are known for being family-friendly, insured, and licensed. Check reviews and make sure they offer what you need to make your move go as smoothly as possible.

Ready to make your move easy and calm? Find the best moving companies and perform your move with ease—no stress just smiles! 

Parents' Checklist After Moving with Kids

Alright, you’ve made it to your new home—congratulations! 

But the work isn’t over yet.

Here's a quick checklist to help guide you through the post-move transition so you and your kids will feel settled and at ease.

Create a Calm and Familiar Space for Your Kids

Make your kids’ space feel familiar. Unpack their favorite toys or stuffed animals to help them feel more at home. Studies show kids adjust better when they have a space that’s their own and filled with things they love.

Establish New Routines

Re-establish meal times, bedtime routines, and family activities. Maintaining familiar routines helps reduce stress and makes the new environment feel more stable.

Explore the Neighborhood Together

Take a walk around the new area. Show your kids the local park, playground, or any fun spots nearby. Exploring together will help them feel excited about the move and make the new place feel more familiar.

Check in with Your Kids Emotionally

Moving can stir up many emotions. Take time to talk with your kids about how they're feeling. Kids who feel heard and supported are more likely to adjust well to their new surroundings. Let them express any sadness or excitement; they’ll feel better just by talking it out.

Connect with Local Support Systems

Look for local parenting groups or community events. Making new connections—whether with other parents, a school, or extracurricular activities—can make the transition smoother for everyone.

Want to relax during your move? Our moving guide has all the tips you need to make it easy!

Recommended Resources

• How to Estimate Your Move Size

• What To Pack First When Moving

• How to Find Affordable Movers

• A Checklist for Moving to a New State