Are you preparing to start moving house with children and are feeling a little uncertain about where to begin?
You’re not alone—many parents find relocating one of life’s most daunting challenges.
In fact, a poll of 2,000 UK adults who moved house revealed that 61% ranked it as their top stressor, even comparing it to the strain of divorce.
And while adults often focus on logistics, children’s needs can easily get overlooked.
From toddlers clinging to familiar routines to teens mourning lost friendships, moving house with children requires careful planning and plenty of patience.
But don’t panic! With the right approach, you can turn chaos into calm.
Here are our top 10 tips on how to keep your family happy and stress-free during the big move.
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Most children have only ever known one home.
Their school, friends, and even the local park are deeply tied to their sense of security.
Uprooting them—even to a better area—can feel unsettling.
Younger kids might struggle to grasp why their toys are suddenly in boxes, while teens may resent leaving their social circles.
The key to a successful move?
Tailor your approach to their age and involve them in the process.
Open conversations are your best tool.
Sit down as a family and explain why you’re moving—whether it’s for a bigger garden, a new job, or a fresh start.
Answer their questions honestly, even if it’s just, “Will I have to share a room?”
Being open and honest should not only help your child understand the reasons for moving but also go a long way to making them feel part of the process.
Building on the idea of feeling included in the move, you can help to turn anxiety into anticipation by involving kids in the planning:
Let’s be honest—watching strangers haul away their bed or favourite chair can upset even the most easygoing child.
To avoid a moving day meltdown consider the following:
Children often need closure when it comes to moving home.
There are a number of things you can do as a parent to help with this.
Walk through each room together, take photos of their old home, or create a memory box with old house keys or garden leaves.
This helps them process the transition emotionally and feel ready to enjoy their life in a new home.
Children thrive on routine, so prioritise their space when it comes to unpacking.
Unpack their bedroom immediately, even if the rest of the house is chaotic.
This will help create a haven for them to feel relaxed.
Keep bedding, nightlights, and toys easily accessible to make them feel as comfortable as possible.
Whilst you may be in a new property with new furnishings, keeping some feeling of familiarity can help to make a child feel at home.
As an experienced removal company, GoodMove have seen it all!
Here are some of the most common mistakes you should try to avoid.
Teens may struggle most with a big move!
Leaving friends, changing schools and feeling a little isolated can all really take a toll.
But what can you do to help them with this big change?
We would always recommend offering compromises, such as:
Relocating with children doesn’t have to feel like climbing Everest.
At GoodMove, we specialise in stress-free family moves across Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk.
Our team handles the heavy lifting (literally!), while you focus on what matters: your kids.
Whether you’re moving across town or the county, GoodMove makes it easy.
Our friendly estimators will create a tailored plan for your family—no drama, no delays.
Call us today for a quote or complete our quick and easy contact form.
Let’s turn your new house into a happy home!
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