Preparing for a Move With Kids

To you, a move to a new house probably means more space, a better neighborhood, or even a brand-new start (and job). But to your toddler, it means leaving behind a place he knows and loves. (At least at first — the good news is little kids are extremely adaptable.) To help the family move go as smoothly as possible, keep these tips in mind when you’re preparing:

Break the news before you start packing. Your perceptive little pipsqueak will quickly pick up that change is afoot; so as soon as your plans are definite, tell him what’s going on in words he can understand, like “We’re going to live in a different house soon.”
Be upbeat. No matter how excited you might be as you prepare to move, you’re bound to feel anxious as well. When moving with a toddler, try not to pass your worries along, but let your child know it’s okay if he feels scared or confused and that you’re there to help him. (Extra hugs and kisses work wonders, too.)
Mark the calendar. As with any anticipated date (like his birthday or the start of school), tracking the time until the big day arrives can help make the wait a little easier.
Dole out the details. Explain what’s happening as you go about preparing for a move. Involve your tot in packing up his room or running a yard sale. As the actual day approaches, start talking about what will happen (keep it simple, but don’t skimp on details). It’ll comfort him to know that his bed is coming along, as well as the family pooch. Describe how the movers will put everything into boxes, then put those boxes into a big truck and drive them to the new house.
Visit the new digs. If you’re staying local, take your child to see the new house. Even if you can’t go inside, walk or drive by and show him which window will be his and where the swing set will go. Stroll down your new street (you might even meet some future playmates on your tour), scope out the nearest playground, and visit the local ice-cream shop so you both start to get a sense of the neighborhood.
Take a virtual tour. If you’re preparing to move far away, post pictures of the new house and nearby landmarks in a place where your child can check them out frequently (on the fridge, for example, or on your laptop as he sits in your lap). Your realtor may be willing to take a few photos for you or you can try Googling your address-to-be — you might be able to see a street-level view of the house (or even spot it from space).