I am writing this sitting in my new home having moved only last week so I’m still surrounded by boxes and I’ve no idea where anything is! Moving home is stressful enough but this is the first time I’ve done it with a child and dog in tow and it’s a whole different ball game! Having just gone through it, I thought I’d jot down a few of the top tips friends and family shared with me for you to take a look at… Talk to them Little ones won’t really understand if you simply say you’re ‘moving’ home. Try and sit them down and explain exactly what they can expect when moving day comes around. Getting them used to the idea will go a long way to alleviating any anxiety they may have about leaving their old home. Take them to see their new home Take them along to a second viewing and if you can take some walks or drive past the house and the area you are moving to. Getting them comfortable is the key and by introducing them to the house you will be helping them get used to the concept of moving before it happens. Choosing your moving day I appreciate you may not really get much of a say in this but try and think about what day of the week or time of year would be best for your child. For example, we opted for a Wednesday Top tips for moving house with kids in tow! as our daughter is at nursery. Many parents opt for moving days in the middle of the summer holidays, others find it easier for their children if they move during term time, as this gives you extra time without them under your feet! Get them involved Another great way to make the whole process more tangible for your kids is to get them involved. It could be as simple as letting them help you pack their toys, but it will make them feel involved and give you the opportunity to talk about the move. Don’t pack everything We call it a ‘Go Bag’, what could you not live without for a couple of days. Favourite teddies, PJ’s a couple of bedtime stories were all essentials in our go-bags. If we didn’t get a chance to unpack even the essentials, we could survive a night as long as we had those few things. Settle them in Once the removal lorry pulls away and you’re left in your new home with your kids, it’s important to settle them down as quickly as possible. However, it’s just as important for you to stick to old routines as well. Bedtime is still bedtime, even if you are in a new home. Raring2go! HOME, TRAVEL & LEISURE 42
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