If you’re a young family who’s already outgrown a one-bedroom flat and is now ready to purchase a spacious land for sale around Armstrong Creek or other suburban cities, you’re in a for a great challenge because preparing for a move with young kids can really test your patience and resilience. Aside from the fact that your children are too young to pack their own belongings so that’s extra work for you, they’d be whiny and irritable for some time, because their young minds are unable to process yet that they’re now in a new home.
Considering this, it seems easier to wait for the kids to grow a bit before moving, but practically, is it really more beneficial? If the consequence is having to constantly squeeze in a space you obviously can’t fit anymore, then moving as soon as possible is the more sensible choice. Yes, the kids are going to be a problem, but here are some tips to guide you so that the move won’t be as stressful:
1. Inform the Kids Ahead of Time
Once you make the decision the move, talk to your kids immediately. But don’t rush in telling them right away what’s going to change; instead, tell them that they’ll still have their toys, but their room is going to be so much better with more space for them to play around. Get them excited by saying that your new home is going to be more beautiful.
It would greatly help if you can bring your kids with you when you make a site visit. That way, you can get them familiar with the new house and the neighborhood. Make sure to show them the playground and other fun outdoor areas as well so they would be thrilled about the move.
2. Pack Up While They’re Asleep
Kids are a handful, so you’d barely have the chance to pack up while they’re awake and active. Use their sleeping time as your cue to start packing instead. Start with your own belongings, because your kid may rummage through the boxes if you packed their toys first!
Another good reason to pack up while the kids are sleeping is to be able to get rid of stuff your kids never use. Children have the tendency to throw a fit when you take away the toys that they never play with anymore, so by having them asleep while you de-clutter, they won’t notice that a toy of theirs has already disappeared.
3. Get Them Involved in Fun Ways
When you visit the site of your new home, let your kids pick their own rooms. Getting them involved will give them a sense of mastery, which makes a significant difference when you start to move. When you need to pack while they’re awake, make them engage by giving them some boxes to play with. As they watch you put stuff in the boxes, they may be encouraged to copy you and start to gather their own things in the boxes, too.
4. Maintain Your Routines
Young kids operate through routines and predictability, so as much as it’s difficult, try to maintain your routines in the midst of preparing to move. Set meal times and bedtimes at the usual schedule so they won’t be disoriented. When you’ve already moved, use their old bedding first so they’d have something comfortable and familiar. Be sure to have their favorite snacks available, so their mood will always be pleasant.
5. Expect Their Angst and Allow It
No matter how much you prepare your kids, your move will never be perfect, so allow them to vent out their negative feelings. It won’t be easy for them to adjust to a new community and school. Stay in touch with your old community and help your kids in any way.
Your support is crucial for your children throughout the whole moving and adjusting period, and at the end of the day, being there for them is the best way to prepare them for the new chapter in your lives.
