Moving with Kids: Keeping the Little Ones Happy and Stress-Free
October 29, 2024 6 min read
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Quick answer: To move across provinces with kids, talk to them early and honestly, involve them in the process, keep familiar routines and comfort items, pack a fun travel kit for the journey, and help them settle by exploring the new area together. Patience eases the adjustment.
Moving can be a whirlwind of emotions – exciting, overwhelming, and maybe even a bit scary. But when you’re moving across provinces with kids in tow, those feelings can amplify tenfold. Suddenly, it’s not just about packing boxes and finding a new home; it’s about navigating your children’s anxieties, keeping them happy on a long journey, and helping them adjust to a whole new life.
Take it from Sarah and Ben, who recently moved from bustling Toronto to the serene landscapes of Vancouver Island with their two young children. “We were thrilled about the fresh start,” Sarah shares, “but the thought of uprooting our kids and disrupting their routines filled us with anxiety.”
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Moving with kids is a unique challenge, but it can also be an incredible adventure for the whole family. At MTS Moving and Storage, we understand the emotions and logistics involved in relocating with little ones. We’re here to offer practical advice, reassurance, and support every step of the way, so you can focus on creating lasting memories in your new home.
How do you prepare kids for a provincial move?
Open communication and age-appropriate involvement are key to a smooth transition. But how you approach the move will differ depending on whether you’re relocating with a baby, a curious toddler, a school-aged child, or an independent teenager.
- What to expect
- Thrive on routine; sensitive to disruption
- How to help
- Maintain familiar schedules; pack familiar toys, blankets, and favourite books for comfort
- What to expect
- Curious but easily overwhelmed
- How to help
- Use simple language; highlight a new playground or bigger backyard; let them pack toys and pick a “moving day” stuffy
- What to expect
- May feel anxious about leaving friends and school
- How to help
- Acknowledge their feelings; keep them connected via letters, video calls, and visits; involve them in researching the new community
- What to expect
- Crave independence; may grieve their social circle
- How to help
- Encourage open communication; involve them in decisions like choosing their room or new extracurricular activities
No matter their age, remember to:
Be patient and understanding. Moving is a big adjustment for everyone, especially children.
Answer their questions honestly. Even if they seem trivial to you, their questions are valid and deserve your attention.
Create a sense of excitement. Focus on the positive aspects of the move and the new adventures that await.
By involving your children in the process and addressing their concerns, you can help them embrace the move and feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.
How do you keep kids happy on a long-distance move?
While the destination holds excitement, the journey itself can be a challenge, especially with kids. But with a bit of planning and creativity, you can transform those miles into memorable moments.
What should go in a kids’ moving-day survival kit?
Think of this as your secret weapon against boredom and meltdowns. Fill it with:
Snacks: Pack healthy snacks and treats to keep energy levels up.
Entertainment: Books, colouring books, small toys, travel games, and electronic devices loaded with movies and games are essential.
Comfort items: Don’t forget favourite blankets, stuffed animals, and pillows for cozying up during the journey.
Essentials: Pack a change of clothes, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and any necessary medications in an easily accessible bag.
Plan for Breaks and Rest Stops:
Even the most patient child needs to stretch their legs and burn off energy. Plan your route with regular breaks at rest stops, parks, or interesting attractions along the way. These breaks offer a chance to refresh and recharge, preventing restlessness and crankiness.
Keep the Fun Rolling:
Road trip games: Engage kids with classic games like “I Spy” or license plate bingo.
Audiobooks and singalongs: Enjoy a family-friendly audiobook or create a playlist of everyone’s favourite songs for a singalong adventure.
Creative activities: Pack travel-friendly art supplies, journals, or activity books to encourage creative expression.
Remember, flexibility is key. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your children’s needs and moods. And most importantly, embrace the unexpected detours and spontaneous moments of joy that often arise during a family road trip. After all, these are the memories you’ll cherish long after you’ve settled into your new home.
Home Sweet New Home: Helping Kids Adjust and Thrive
The moving truck is unpacked, boxes are piled high, and a sense of “newness” fills the air. While you’re busy organizing and setting up, remember that your kids are processing this transition too. Here’s how to help them settle in and embrace their new surroundings:
Create a Sense of Familiarity:
Unpack their rooms first: Prioritize setting up your children’s bedrooms to create a familiar and comforting space.
Bring familiar items: Surround them with their favourite toys, books, and decorations to ease the transition.
Maintain routines: Stick to familiar bedtimes, mealtimes, and routines as much as possible to provide a sense of stability.
Explore the New Surroundings:
Neighbourhood adventures: Take walks, visit local parks, and discover playgrounds to help your kids familiarize themselves with their new neighbourhood.
Community connections: Explore local libraries, community centres, and recreation facilities to find activities and programs that spark your children’s interests.
School visits: If possible, visit your children’s new school before their first day to meet teachers and explore the building.
Making New Friends:
Playdates and meetups: Arrange playdates with other children in the neighbourhood or join local parent groups to connect with families in your area.
Extracurricular activities: Encourage your kids to participate in sports, clubs, or after-school activities to meet children with shared interests.
Be patient: It takes time to build new friendships. Offer support and encouragement as your children navigate their new social landscape.
Maintaining Connections with Old Friends:
Stay in touch: Encourage your kids to stay connected with friends and family back home through video calls, letters, and social media.
Plan visits: If possible, arrange visits back home or invite old friends to visit your new home to maintain those important connections.
Remember, adjusting to a new home takes time. Be patient, supportive, and create opportunities for your children to explore, connect, and create new memories in their new environment.
MTS Moving and Storage: Your Partner in Family Relocation
At MTS Moving and Storage, we understand that moving with kids isn’t just about transporting belongings; it’s about relocating a family’s entire world. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience for everyone, from the littlest to the tallest member of your crew.
Here’s how we make moving with kids easier:
Expert packing services: Leave the packing to our experienced team, so you can focus on preparing your children for the move. We’ll carefully handle everything from fragile heirlooms to your child’s favourite stuffed animals.
Safe and secure transportation: Our modern fleet and skilled drivers ensure your belongings, and most importantly, your precious cargo, arrive safely at your new home.
Real-time tracking technology: Stay informed about your shipment’s progress every step of the way, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your family’s needs.
Dedicated customer support: Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide support throughout your moving journey.
We believe that moving should be an exciting adventure, not a daunting ordeal. With MTS Moving and Storage by your side, you can focus on creating lasting memories with your family, knowing that your belongings are in safe hands.
Ready to experience a stress-free family move?
Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you plan your next chapter.
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Mete Kalfa
Director, MTS Moving
Mete Kalfa is the Director of MTS Moving and a second-generation long-distance relocation expert. Specializing in inter-provincial moves across Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, he leverages decades of family legacy and active Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) membership to provide transparent insights that protect consumers from industry scams.