Moving house is a major change in a family’s life.
For adults, it’s often an exciting project — a new stage, a fresh start.
But for children, this change can bring anxiety, insecurity, or even sadness, especially if they must leave their school, friends, or familiar surroundings.
Fortunately, there are many ways to support them positively through this transition.
Here’s how to prepare your children for a move — step by step.
1. Talk About It Early and in a Positive Way
The first essential step is communication.
As soon as the move is confirmed, tell your children about it. Even very young kids can sense that something is changing and may become anxious if they don’t understand what’s happening.
Use a calm and reassuring tone, and highlight the positive aspects: a bigger bedroom, a garden, a nearby park, or the chance to make new friends.
Explain the reasons behind the move (a new job, a larger home, etc.) and emphasize the benefits for the whole family.
2. Involve Them in the Process
Children like to feel useful and heard. Include them in the different stages of the move:
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Choosing the house: If possible, show them pictures or, even better, visit the property together.
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Setting up their room: Let them choose the colors, furniture layout, or even some decorative items.
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Packing boxes: Encourage them to pack their own toys and reassure them they’ll find everything again at the new house.
This involvement helps them feel more in control and more accepting of the change.
3. Acknowledge Their Emotions
Even if the project feels exciting to you, your children might experience a range of emotions — fear, anger, sadness… and that’s completely normal.
It’s important to acknowledge and validate those feelings rather than minimize them.
Take time to listen, ask questions, and reassure them as needed.
You can also read children’s books about moving — they’re a great way to discuss emotions in a fun and comforting way.
4. Maintain a Sense of Stability
A move can disrupt family routines.
To help your children adapt smoothly, try to maintain familiar anchors and habits:
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Keep regular meal and bedtime schedules.
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Continue familiar activities (sports, music, family games).
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Keep comforting objects close — don’t pack away favorite blankets, toys, or stuffed animals too soon.
Even amid the moving boxes, these small rituals provide comfort and stability.
5. Make Goodbyes a Positive Experience
Leaving a house, a school, or friends behind can be hard.
Help your children say goodbye in a positive way by organizing special moments:
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A farewell party with their friends
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A photo album of favorite memories
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A final visit to their favorite spots (park, library, etc.)
Take photos together and let them share what they’ll miss — it helps them let go and embrace the change.
6. Explore the New Neighborhood Together
Once the move is done, take time to discover your new environment as a family.
Visit important places together:
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Their new school or daycare
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Nearby parks and sports facilities
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The library, local shops, and walking routes
Turn discovery into an adventure — why not a little “neighborhood treasure hunt” to find key places?
This playful approach encourages curiosity and a positive attitude toward the new surroundings.
7. Encourage New Friendships
One of the hardest parts of moving for children is losing their old friends.
To help them rebuild their social circle, encourage new connections:
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Sign them up for extracurricular or sports activities
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Introduce yourselves to neighbors with children
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Encourage playdates or small gatherings at home
With a bit of support, they’ll soon feel part of their new community.
8. Be Patient and Supportive After the Move
Even after the move is complete, adjustment takes time.
Stay alert for signs of stress — trouble sleeping, irritability, isolation, or sadness.
These reactions are often temporary but should still be taken seriously.
Be present, reassuring, and open to discussion.
You can even create family “check-in moments” to talk about how everyone feels after the first few weeks.
In Summary
Moving with children requires special care, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to strengthen family bonds and start a new adventure together.
By involving them, respecting their rhythm, and focusing on the positive aspects of change, you can turn this challenge into a rewarding experience.
Need Help Planning a Smooth Move?
A real estate broker can guide you through every step of your project, taking your family’s unique needs into account.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect neighborhood, a home that fits your lifestyle, or help organizing a stress-free move — I’m here to help.
Contact me today and let’s make your move a success!
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