Moving with Kids: Tips for Families in Melbourne

Moving turns into a bittersweet experience when kids are involved. Between school transitions, emotional goodbyes, and making sure the little ones are entertained through the process, things can sometimes get hectic. For Melbourne families, preparation and good enough support really make things easier. 

Fortunately, experienced Melbourne movers can certainly keep the pressure off a bit with their experienced helping hands. Be it a move within the city or far from it, some of these tips might come in handy in helping your family through this transition.

1. Talk To Your Kids Early

Children crave stability in their lives, which moving could interrupt. So inform kids early about the move as soon as it's finalised. Explain in very simple terms the reasons for moving-buying a new house, a job change, or better opportunities for the family.

Allow them to voice their thoughts and ask questions. This will help them adapt to the changes and a sense of being part of this journey. 

2. Explore the New Area Together

If time permits, visit the neighbourhood with your kids before moving. Walking around and checking out a playground, dining at a café, or even a quick visit to their new school may all build excitement. The more they do, the more they overcome 'fear of the unknown.'

3. Preserving Routine

In the bustled atmosphere of moving, a little bit of normal daily routine can help your kids feel grounded. During this transitional phase, maintain your established routines, such as going to bed at a certain time, eating, or watching movies together. Even a little breakfast ritual or a story at bedtime can provide comfort during what may feel like a whirlwind. 

4. Let Them Help with Packing

The child usually feels powerless during a move. So let’s make them feel a sense of power. Assign them a separate task of putting their toys or books, and clothes into the boxes. To make it more fun, provide markers and stickers to decorate their cute little boxes.

Be prepared to step in or at least check that the important stuff is in the box, though!

5. Getting Child-Friendly Help

Logistics can be one of the bigger areas of stress for a family moving. Getting the help you need is important.  Man with a van Melbourne will be good if you are handling a smaller move or require flexibility in arranging times around school drop-off and nap time. Those services usually tend to be more customised and child-friendly.

6. Pack a First-Night Essentials Box

Set up a special box with everything your child will need for the actual night: jammies, toothbrush, favourite toy, bedtime stories, snacks, and that nightlight, if there is one.

Label it clearly, and then put it either in the car or the magical spot of all moving-day essentials, so it can be found immediately.

7. Make Goodbyes Meaningful

Goodbyes can be very hard, especially for young kids. This is why you want to mark the occasion with a small farewell party, going around snapping pictures in some favourite spots, or even making a memory book with lots of pictures and drawings.

Encourage them to express their feelings and discuss what they will miss. 

8. A Child-Friendly Setting Gets Put in First

In priority, your little one’s room should be set up immediately after entering the new house. Do it all together to make memories and let them have a sense of belonging.

Having one room that feels like "home" makes a big difference, even with the rest of the house held, in some fashion, by boxes.

9. Unpack Together

Set small goals with your family for unpacking, like "unpack the kitchen by lunch" or "organise your bookshelf today." Make a big fuss over small victories with rewards like treats or a family movie. 

If you happen to be working with house movers Melbourne, many of them will include an unpacking service option, which can be a great help with all the unpacking and allow you some time for adjustment with the kids.

10. Stay Patient, Stay Observant

Children react to moving in different ways. Encourage them to share their every experience and put them at ease. Simply listening is sometimes all it takes to make a difference.

A Final Thought

Moving with children may never be entirely stress-free, but with the right planning, open communication, and support, it can be an affirmative experience for the entire family. Allow your kids to be included in all of this and to have time to adapt, and thus you will not just be easing the transition, but also giving them an opportunity to grow some resilience.

If you look on the bright side and follow just a few simple steps, the move can be far more than just an upgrade in your life; it can mark a sense of togetherness.