How to Help Kids Adjust to Moving
How to Help Kids Adjust to Moving: The Ultimate Guide for Parents
Moving to a new home can be super exciting for grown-ups.
But for kids? Not so much.
If you're reading this, you probably want to know how to help kids adjust to moving without all the tears and tantrums.
Good news! You've come to the right place.
Hi, I'm Jae Burnham, owner of Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving.
As someone who's helped hundreds of families move since founding our company in January 2024, I've seen it all.
The meltdowns.
The worry.
The "I'm not going!" foot-stomping.
But I've also seen kids who handle moving like little champs.
What's the difference? Parents who know how to help their kids through this big change.
In this mega-guide, we'll walk through everything you need to know about helping your kids adjust to moving.
By the time you finish reading, you'll have a complete game plan to make your move smoother for the whole family.
Why Moving Is Hard for Kids (Even When It's Good for the Family)
Before we jump into the how-to stuff, let's talk about why moving hits kids so hard.
Adults understand the big picture.
Maybe you're moving for a better job, a nicer neighborhood, or to be closer to family. You can see past the hassle to the benefits waiting on the other side.
Kids don't think that way.
To them, moving means losing their friends, their favorite park, and the only bedroom they've ever known.
It's like their whole world is being turned upside down!
Even super little kids who can't really explain their feelings know when big changes happen.
They pick up on your stress too, which can make them even more upset.
Understanding this helps us be more patient when kids don't jump for joy about the moving van pulling up.
How Moving Affects Kids of Different Ages
Not all kids react the same way to moving.
A lot depends on how old they are.
Babies and Toddlers (0-2 years)
The good news? Babies are pretty adaptable! They might be a bit fussy during the move because routines get messed up. But as long as you're there with cuddles and their favorite blanket, they'll adjust quick.
Little ones this age don't have strong connections to places yet. Their security comes from you, not from their room or house.
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
Preschoolers start to get attached to their homes. They might worry about leaving toys behind or wonder if their bed is coming too.
The biggest challenge with this age? They don't fully understand what "moving" means until it happens. This can lead to confusion and anxiety.
Elementary School Kids (6-12 years)
This age group often has the hardest time. They have deep friendships, favorite spots in the neighborhood, and strong connections to their school and teachers.
School-age kids understand what moving means but might not have the emotional tools to deal with it yet. Expect some big feelings!
Teenagers (13-18 years)
Teens might seem like they're taking it super hard or surprisingly well. Some get really upset about leaving friends and social groups. Others see it as an adventure or a fresh start.
The tough part for teens is that their social life is EVERYTHING at this age. Plus, they're dealing with all those teenage emotions already!
Top Signs Your Child Might Be Struggling With the Move
How do you know if your child is having a tough time adjusting?
Watch for these red flags:
Sleep problems (trouble falling asleep, nightmares, wanting to sleep in your bed)
Behavior changes (more tantrums, acting out, being extra clingy)
Talking a lot about the old house or seeming sad when the new house is mentioned
Not wanting to unpack or get settled in the new room
Stomach aches, headaches, or other physical complaints
For older kids: dropping grades, losing interest in activities they used to love, or isolating themselves
These are all normal reactions, but they're signs your child needs extra support right now.
Before the Move: Setting Kids Up for Success
The best way to help kids adjust to moving?
Start BEFORE moving day!
Here's how:
How to Talk to Your Child About Moving
The conversation about moving looks different depending on your child's age.
But here are some basics that work for everyone:
Break the news early. Don't wait until the moving truck is outside! Give kids plenty of time to process.
Keep it positive but honest. Say things like, "We're going to move to a new house that has more space for us to play!" but also acknowledge, "It's okay to feel sad about leaving our current home."
Answer all questions. Even if they ask the same thing 100 times. Kids process by repeating.
Use simple language. Especially for younger kids. "Moving means all our stuff and our whole family will go live in a different house."
Focus on what's staying the same. "Your bed, toys, and all our family will be at the new house too!"
How to Prepare Your Child for a Move
Now that they know a move is coming, here's how to get them ready:
Read books about moving. There are tons of great children's books about families who move. Reading these together helps kids see that moving is normal and okay. (See tool above)
Visit the new home and neighborhood if possible. Even a drive-by helps make the new place feel real and less scary.
Look at pictures or videos of the new house. If you can't visit in person, technology can help! Show them where their new room will be.
Explore the new neighborhood online. Look up parks, the library, ice cream shops, or whatever your kids love.
Let them help with planning. Even young kids can help decide how to arrange their new bedroom or what color to paint the walls.
Talk about the moving process itself. Explain that people called movers (like our friendly team at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving!) will help pack your things into a big truck and take them to the new house.
How to Help Your Child Say Goodbye to Their Old Home
Leaving is hard!
These goodbye rituals can help bring closure:
Host a goodbye party. Invite friends over for a special send-off.
Take photos of the old house and make a memory book together.
Visit favorite places one last time - the local playground, favorite restaurant, etc.
Make a "goodbye tour" of the empty house before leaving. Let kids say goodbye to each room.
Exchange contact info with friends. Help kids collect phone numbers, addresses, and maybe set up video chat accounts (with supervision).
Plant something at the old house (if possible) as a special "we were here" marker.
These rituals help kids process the big change and feel like they have some control in a situation where they have very little.
Moving Day: Making It Less Stressful for Kids
The big day is here!
Here's how to make moving day easier for kids:
Pack a special "moving day" bag with each child's essentials: favorite toys, blanket, stuffed animals, snacks, change of clothes, and any must-have comfort items.
Consider childcare options. If possible, have someone watch younger kids during the most hectic parts of the move.
Give kids a job. Even little ones can help by carrying a special light item to the car. Older kids can be "box monitors" or help with simple packing tasks.
Keep routines as normal as possible. Try to stick to regular meal and nap times despite the chaos.
Pack kids' rooms last and unpack them first. This minimizes the time their personal space is disrupted.
Stay positive! Your attitude sets the tone. If you're stressed and snippy, kids will pick up on it.
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we know moving day can be crazy.
That's why our movers are trained to be extra mindful of families with kids.
We'll work with you to make sure your little ones feel safe and included in the process.
After the Move: Helping Kids Settle In
You've made it to the new house! Now the adjustment period begins.
Here's how to help:
First Night Survival
The first night in a new home can be tough.
Try these ideas:
Make beds right away so everyone has a familiar place to sleep.
Have a special first-night dinner. Maybe order pizza and have a picnic on the floor.
Stick to bedtime routines as much as possible. Same books, songs, and tucking-in rituals.
Use night lights in new rooms to help with unfamiliar shadows and sounds.
Don't rush bedtime. Kids might need extra snuggles on this big night.
Setting Up Kids' Rooms Fast
One of the best ways to help kids adjust to moving is getting their personal space set up quickly.
Here's how:
Unpack kids' rooms before other areas of the house so they have a safe space.
Set up beds with familiar bedding right away.
Put out a few favorite toys on the first day.
Display comfort items and photos to make the space feel like "them."
Let kids help arrange their room if they're old enough. This gives them ownership.
Don't rush to decorate perfectly. Focus on comfort first, style later.
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we can help by making sure all your kids' labeled boxes go directly to their rooms, making the setup process easier for you.
Maintaining Routines During a Move
Routines are super important for helping kids feel secure during big changes.
Here's how to keep them going:
Stick to meal times as much as possible.
Keep bedtime consistent, even if you're exhausted from unpacking.
Continue usual family traditions like movie night or Sunday pancakes.
Return to normal activities like sports or lessons as soon as possible.
Re-establish rules and expectations quickly so kids know boundaries haven't changed.
Children thrive on knowing what comes next, so preserving these predictable moments helps them adjust to all the new stuff happening.
Helping Kids Make Friends After Moving
One of the biggest worries for kids (and parents!) is making new friends.
Here are ways to help:
Meet neighborhood families by taking walks or visiting local parks.
Arrange playdates with classmates from the new school.
Sign up for activities where your child can meet kids with similar interests.
Host a small get-together at your new home to meet neighbors.
Use the local library for children's programs where kids can socialize.
Be patient! Building new friendships takes time. Don't expect instant BFFs.
Making new friends is often the turning point where kids start to feel at home in their new location.
Helping Kids Stay Connected to Old Friends
Just because you've moved doesn't mean all old friendships have to end.
Here's how to maintain those important connections:
Set up video chats with old friends regularly.
Help kids exchange letters or small care packages with former neighbors.
Use photos of old friends in their room.
Plan visits back to the old neighborhood when possible.
Create a special address book of everyone they want to stay in touch with.
Talk about old friends positively but also encourage new friendships.
Keeping these connections helps kids see that moving doesn't mean losing everyone they care about.
What's the Best Time of Year to Move with Children?
If you have flexibility about when to move, here's what to consider:
Summer Moves:
Pros: No school disruption, more daylight hours for moving, better weather
Cons: Kids have more free time to worry, harder to meet school friends
School Year Moves:
Pros: Immediate social opportunities through school, structured days
Cons: Academic pressure while adjusting, mid-year curriculum differences
Holiday Moves:
Pros: Family may have more time off work
Cons: Can disrupt special traditions, emotional time already
If possible, try to move during summer break but a few weeks before school starts.
This gives kids time to settle in but also allows them to begin school at the same time as everyone else.
How to Help Your Child Adjust to a New School
Starting a new school might be the scariest part of moving for many kids.
Here's how to make it easier:
Tour the school before the first day if possible.
Meet the teacher ahead of time.
Practice the route to school several times.
Go shopping for new school supplies together.
Role-play school scenarios like introducing yourself or asking to join games.
Connect with a "welcome family" - some schools pair new students with established families.
Check in regularly about how school is going, but don't interrogate.
Be prepared for some academic adjustment as curricula differ between schools.
Remember that the first few weeks at a new school are mainly about social adjustment.
Academic success will follow once they feel comfortable.
How to Help Teenagers Cope with Moving
Teens need special consideration during moves.
They're not little kids anymore, but they might still need a lot of support:
Involve them in decisions when possible.
Respect their need for privacy during the transition.
Help them research activities at the new location that match their interests.
Be understanding about social media use to stay connected with old friends.
Consider their input about their new room setup.
Acknowledge the real social loss they're experiencing.
Watch for signs of depression like withdrawal or major personality changes.
Teens might swing between acting very mature about the move and having emotional outbursts.
Both are normal reactions!
Moving with Kids Who Have Special Needs
Children with special needs often have an extra hard time with changes to routine and environment.
If this applies to your family, here are some additional tips:
Work with current therapists to create a transition plan.
Set up services in the new location before moving if possible.
Create social stories or visual schedules about the move.
Bring important sensory items with you in the car rather than packing them.
Visit the new home multiple times if possible.
Consider keeping room setup very similar to the previous home initially.
Allow extra time for adjustment.
The key is minimizing changes where possible while preparing thoroughly for changes that can't be avoided.
What If My Child's Behavior Regresses After Moving?
Regression (like bed-wetting, baby talk, or clinginess) is actually pretty common after a move.
Here's how to handle it:
Don't panic or punish. This is a normal stress response.
Provide extra reassurance without making a huge deal about the behavior.
Maintain clear expectations but be more patient than usual.
Give extra one-on-one time to fill their "security cup."
Stick to routines even more strictly.
Consider a comfort object like a special stuffed animal.
Most regression is temporary and will resolve as your child feels more secure in the new environment.
When Should I Seek Professional Help If My Child Isn't Adjusting?
While adjustment takes time, sometimes kids need extra help.
Watch for these warning signs:
Persistent sadness or anger lasting more than a few months
School refusal or significant academic decline
Social withdrawal from family and peers
Sleep problems that don't improve
Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Talk of hopelessness or not wanting to be alive
Physical symptoms like frequent headaches or stomachaches that don't have a medical cause
If you see these signs, consider talking to your pediatrician or a child therapist.
Sometimes a few sessions with a professional can make a huge difference.
How Long Does It Take for Children to Adjust to a New Home?
Parents often ask me, "When will things get back to normal?"
The honest answer is that it varies, but here's a general timeline:
Toddlers: Often adjust within a few weeks
Preschoolers: Usually 1-2 months
Elementary school kids: Typically 3-6 months
Teenagers: Can take 6 months to a year
Remember that kids might seem adjusted in some ways while still working through feelings in others.
For example, a child might do well at their new school but still have trouble sleeping.
Research shows that the full adjustment process can take up to 16 months, with the most difficult period being the two weeks before and after the move.
How Can I Stay Positive When My Own Stress About Moving Affects My Children?
You can't pour from an empty cup!
Taking care of yourself during a move is actually an important part of helping your kids.
Try these strategies:
Get help with the move. That's exactly what we're here for at Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving!
Take short breaks even during the busiest days.
Maintain your own support system through phone calls or video chats.
Be honest about your feelings in an age-appropriate way.
Find small joys in the new place and point them out.
Remember your why. Keep the reasons for the move front of mind.
Create a "worry time" where you allow yourself to stress, but contain it to that time.
When kids see you managing your own emotions in healthy ways, they learn to do the same.
How Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving Makes Moving with Kids Easier
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we understand that when families move, it's not just about getting stuff from point A to point B.
It's about helping your family transition to a new chapter with minimal stress.
Here's how our kid-friendly moving services can help:
Priority boxing and unboxing of kids' items. We know getting those special stuffed animals and favorite books unpacked ASAP is a priority!
Careful labeling system so nothing important gets lost.
Flexible scheduling to work around nap times and school schedules.
Moving day entertainment packs for kids with coloring books and small activities.
Patient, family-friendly movers who understand that kids might be emotional or underfoot.
Extra care with special items like cribs, toy collections, and nursery furniture.
Our 75+ five-star reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper show that families trust us during this important transition.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family's Move
Moving with kids doesn't have to be a nightmare.
With the right preparation, support, and moving company, it can even become a positive growth experience for the whole family.
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we've helped hundreds of families just like yours make smooth transitions to new homes since we opened our doors in January 2024.
Our team understands the special challenges that come with moving with children, and we're committed to making the process as stress-free as possible.
Ready to plan a kid-friendly move that minimizes stress and maximizes excitement?
Call Jae Burnham and the Mr. BigStuff team today at (517) 948-0894 or visit our website at https://justthebigstuff.com.
Let us handle the heavy lifting while you focus on what matters most - helping your kids adjust to their exciting new home!
Remember: The sooner you book your move, the more time you'll have to focus on preparing your children. Don't wait until the last minute - contact us today for a free quote and let's start planning your family's smooth transition!
