If you’ve ever tried packing up a home while your toddler clings to their favourite toy or your teen sulks about leaving friends behind, you know moving with kids is a whole different challenge. It’s not just boxes and schedules; it’s emotions, routines, and little hearts trying to adjust to big changes.
The good news is that with the right plan and mindset, moving with children doesn’t have to be overwhelming. That’s exactly why we’ve put together these top tips for moving with kids to help you turn what could be chaos into a smooth family experience filled with comfort, clarity, and even a few smiles along the way.
At Economical Movers, we know moving with kids can be challenging. With over 4 years of experience and more than 600 successful moves in Ottawa, our team has helped many families every step of the way. As trusted providers of family moving services in Ottawa, we offer practical tips to keep routines steady and help kids adjust, making your move easier and stress free.
Let’s explore what really works when moving with kids and how a little planning can make a big difference.
Smart Parenting Tips For Moving With Kids In 2025
If you’re worried about how your kids will handle the move, you’re not alone. These smart parenting tips make it easier to keep them calm, involved, and even excited about the big change.
Tip 1: Talk About The Move With Kids
Timing Matters:
Toddlers: talk closer to the move.
Older kids: give a few weeks’ notice to help them adjust.
Be Honest:
Answer questions clearly, even if you don’t know all the details.
Transparency builds trust and confidence.
Frame it positively:
Highlight fun things: a bigger yard, a new room, a nearby park, or your favourite ice cream shop.
Practical ideas:
Toddlers: Use storybooks or simple drawings to explain the move.
Older kids: Involve them in small tasks like packing personal items or planning their new room.
Talking early and keeping kids informed makes the move feel exciting, not scary.
Tip 2: Plan Your Move With Family
Every child reacts differently to moving, so tailor your approach to their age and comfort level.
Tips For Moving With Toddlers of Age 1 to 4 Years
- Keep things simple and reassuring. Remind them that the family stays together.
- Show photos or short videos of the new home so they can picture where they’re going.
- Bring along favourite toys or blankets to create familiarity in the new space.
Tips For Moving With School Kids of Age 5 to 12 Years
- Talk openly about leaving friends and starting at a new school.
- Let them help plan small parts of the move, like labelling boxes or packing school supplies.
- Visit the new neighbourhood online or in person to build excitement.
Tips For Moving With Teenagers of Age 13 and Up
- Expect some resistance and listen more than you lecture.
- Give them a choice, like decorating their room or exploring the new school before moving day.
- Encourage them to stay connected with friends through video calls or visits.
Planning your move with each child’s needs in mind helps reduce anxiety and turns relocation into a shared family effort.
Tip 3: Help Kids Say Goodbye Before Moving
Helping kids say goodbye makes long distance moving with kids feel less scary and more manageable.
Preserve Memories
Create a memory box or scrapbook with keepsakes and photos so children can hold onto their favourite moments.
Take a Farewell Tour
Visit parks, friends’ houses, or favourite spots one last time to give closure.
Maintain Friendships
Host a small goodbye party or make moving cards with new contact info to keep friendships alive.
Tip 4: Use 30 Day Moving Checklist For Kids
Using this checklist for the month before moving makes everything easier for your kid.
Tip 5: Let Kids Help With Packing and Moving Tasks
Involving kids in packing gives them a sense of control and makes the move less stressful.
Decluttering Partnership
Let children choose which toys, clothes, or books to keep, donate, or sell. This helps them feel involved and teaches responsibility.
Delegated Tasks
Give kids small jobs like labelling boxes or packing their stuffed animals. This gives them agency and makes them part of the process.
Tip 6: Set Up The Kids’ Room First In The New Home
Creating a familiar space right away helps children feel secure in the new home.
Use the LIFO (Last In First Out) Rule
Pack essential belongings like bedding, comfort items, and a survival kit last so they are the first things unpacked.
Create an Immediate Sanctuary
Set up the child’s bedroom first with familiar bedding, pictures, and furniture. Making the room feel like their old space eases the adjustment.
Tip 7: Pack A Moving Day Kit For Kids
A small kit keeps kids comfortable, entertained, and well-fed during moving day.
Comfort and Security
Include favourite blankets, stuffed animals, or nightlights to help them feel safe.
Entertainment
Pack a mix of screen time items like pre-loaded tablets or audiobooks, plus non-screen activities like colouring books or card games.Sustenance
Include portable, non-perishable snacks and water bottles to prevent hunger-related meltdowns.
Tip 8: Arrange Childcare During Long Distance Moving with Kids
Keeping kids safe and occupied makes moving day easier for everyone.
- Hire external care – Sitter, relative, or temporary daycare for loading/unloading hours.
- Create a safe zone – Pop-up tent or corner with clear boundaries if kids stay at home.
- Plan around routines – Schedule heavy tasks around nap times and early bedtimes.
Tip 9: Use Familiar Routines To Help Kids Adjust
Consistency helps children feel secure in a new home.
- Stick to routines – Meals, bedtimes, and favourite rituals right away.
- Explore together – Tour the new house and neighbourhood (parks, libraries, community spots).
- Celebrate milestones – Small welcome party, movie night, or treat to mark the transition.
Tip 10: Support Kids In Making New Friends
Social connections help kids settle and feel confident.
- Join activities – Sports, clubs, or hobby groups to meet peers.
- Practice social skills – Role-play asking others to play or join activities.
- Stay connected – Schedule video calls with friends from the old neighbourhood.
How Can I Help My Teen Cope With Moving Stress?
- Acknowledge Feelings: Listen to your teen and let them express sadness, anxiety, or excitement about the move.
- Involve Them in Decisions: Allow them to arrange their new room or choose which belongings to take.
- Maintain Friendships: Encourage calls, messages, or visits to friends from their old neighbourhood.
- Keep Routines: Continue family meals or weekend activities to provide stability.
- Offer Reassurance: Remind them that feeling stressed is normal and that new opportunities await.
How Can Parents Work Through Their Own Emotions About Moving?
- Recognize Your Feelings: Feeling anxious or overwhelmed during a move is normal.
- Plan in Steps: Create a checklist and handle tasks gradually to reduce stress.
- Focus on Positives: Highlight the exciting aspects of the new home and neighbourhood.
- Model Calm Behaviour: Show kids healthy coping by taking breaks, talking through challenges, or going for walks.
- Stay Organized: Staying composed helps everyone feel secure and makes the process smoother.
What Are Some Age Appropriate Tasks For Kids During Packing?
Packing Tips for Toddlers Aged 2 to 4 During a Move
Toddlers can feel the stress of moving, but involving them in small tasks helps them feel included.
- Pack toys, books, and small personal items to give them a sense of ownership.
- Sort items by colour or size to make packing playful and fun.
- Let them decorate boxes with stickers or drawings to add a personal touch and keep them engaged.
How Elementary Kids Aged 5 to 10 Can Help With Moving
Elementary aged children can take on slightly bigger responsibilities while still having fun.
- Label boxes clearly with contents or room names to make unpacking easier.
- Pack clothes, school supplies, and non-breakable items.
- Help organize items for donation or recycling, which teaches responsibility and teamwork.
Moving Responsibilities for Teens Aged 11 to 17
Teens can handle more significant tasks and gain a sense of independence.
- Carefully pack electronics and fragile items to protect valuables during the move.
- Help dismantle small furniture or organize heavier boxes.
- Take responsibility for their personal belongings and set up their new room.
Final Thoughts
For short or long distance moving with kids, both are time-consuming. Keep patience and understanding. Be gentle with them, listen to their feelings, and involve them in small activities to make the move fun and meaningful. With these simple tips, you can turn your family move into a memorable experience.
However, to make the process even easier, consider hiring trusted family movers in Ottawa like Economical Movers. Our team specializes in family relocations and ensures your move is smooth, organized, and completely enjoyable from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions For Moving With Kids
Is It A Good Idea To Involve Kids In Decluttering Before The Move?
Yes. Involving kids in decluttering helps them feel in control and teaches responsibility. They can choose toys or clothes to donate or keep. It reduces packing stress, creates space in the new home, and gives children a sense of accomplishment and understanding of organization.
How Can Kids Stay Connected With Old Friends After Moving?
Encourage calls, video chats, and messages to maintain friendships. Set up playdates when possible or use social media responsibly. Sending letters or small care packages can also help. Staying connected provides emotional support, reduces loneliness, and makes adjusting to a new environment easier.
Are There Any Benefits of Maintaining Routines For Children During Moving?
Maintaining routines gives children a sense of stability amid change. Consistent meal times, bedtime, and activities reduce anxiety and help them feel secure. It also supports healthy sleep, emotional well-being, and smoother adjustment to a new home and school.
What Are Some Games To Make Packing More Fun For Kids?
Turn packing into a game with challenges like “who packs fastest,” sorting items by colour, or scavenger hunts for toys. You can reward completed boxes or create “special treasure boxes.” Fun games keep kids engaged, reduce stress, and make packing feel like an adventure.
Do We Need To Involve My Kids In Choosing Their New Room’s Paint Colour Or Theme?
Yes. Allowing children to pick paint colours or room themes gives them ownership and excitement about their new space. It makes the room feel familiar and personal, helping them adjust emotionally and creating a sense of belonging in the new home.
What Snacks Are Good For A Kids’ Moving Day Kit?
Pack healthy, non-messy snacks like granola bars, fruit slices, trail mix, crackers, and juice boxes. These provide energy, keep kids satisfied during the busy day, and reduce stress. Avoid sticky or melting foods that can create a mess and frustration during the move.
Do Parents Help Kids To Meet New People After Moving?
Yes. Introduce children to neighbours, classmates, or local activity groups. Encourage joining sports, clubs, or community events. Parents can arrange playdates or attend local gatherings. Meeting new people helps children build friendships, feel welcomed, and adjust faster to their new environment.
How Can Parents Prepare Kids To Be Excited About Moving?
Highlight the fun aspects, like exploring a new neighbourhood, meeting new friends, or designing their new room. Use visual aids, such as maps, photos, or videos, to help them imagine the new environment. Encourage their input in decisions, making the move feel like an adventure rather than a disruption.
What Are The Best Residential Moving Companies Near Me?
If you’re looking for reliable and affordable residential movers in Ottawa, Economical Movers is a top choice. They provide high quality service with a professional, experienced team that ensures your belongings are handled safely. Choosing them means a smooth, stress-free moving experience tailored to your needs.
