Moving to a new home is a very stressful life event for adults. Moving with kids can feel like their entire world is being destroyed. Kids love their routines and familiar things. When kids see their toys packed up, and realize they are leaving their friends, their rooms, and their favorite parks, it can cause a lot of feelings including anxiety and sadness.
In Southwest Florida, a move to a new home is a fresh new start for the entire family. However, to ensure that the move continues to build the positive experience for the family, the parents must tackle major challenges. At the Moving Mavericks, we are more than a moving service; we are a family business that knows and cares for the dilemmas that parents face during a moving service. We do the hard part of moving so that you can do the hard part of being a good and caring parent. To avail of a moving service that pays special attention to families in Southwest Florida, please call Moving Mavericks at (239) 722-0000.
1. Preparing to moving with Kids
When moving with kids is decided, the conversation must begin. Keeping the move a secret can lead to an increased level of anxiety, so it is better to be honest with the kids.
- Talk it Up: You can talk positively about the new home. For example, maybe the home has a bigger backyard or is closer to the beach or a new park in Southwest Florida.
- Read Books Together: Reading children’s books about moving will help kids with the whole moving process since moving can cause a lot of different emotions, and books can help kids process their feelings.
- Visit the New Neighborhood: If you are moving within the same city, take the kids to the new house so they can see it and play in the nearby parks. This promotes a sense of enthusiasm and helps them gain familiarity with the environment.
2. Involving Them in the Process.
Children feel less anxious when they feel they have some control over the situation.
- The “Decorating” Job: Kids can be involved in choosing the colors of their new room, and they can be the ones to decide on the position of their bed.
- Packing Their Own “Special Box”: Each child can have their own box which they can decorate with stickers and markers. In that box, they can pack their favorite toys. You can tell them that this box is going to be kept with you in the car and will not go in the big moving truck.
- Team Decluttering: Suggest that they select a few toys to donate to some children in Southwest Florida. This helps them understand the transition while removing some items you won’t need to take.
3. Keeping Routines in the Midst of the Chaos.
In the weeks leading up to the move, do your best to keep bedtimes, mealtimes, and nap times as consistent as you can. Boxes can be overwhelming to look at, so try to keep one room (maybe the living room or one of the kids’ bedrooms) free of boxes so that they have a space to unwind.
4. Safety First: Moving Day Logistics
Moving Day can be unsafe for small children. It’s busy and loud.
- Consider a Sitter: The best option for keeping kids safe is to have them stay with a grandparent, a friend, or at daycare on move day.
- Make a “Kid Zone”: If they have to stay at home, create an area with a tablet, some coloring books and a few snacks. This is where they will stay to be out of the movers’ way.
- Safety Awareness: When Moving Mavericks arrives, please tell the crew leader if there are any kids in the house. Our team is incredibly careful, but knowing where kids are helps us keep the environment 100% safe. Call us at (239) 722-0000 if you have special requests regarding your family.
5. The “First Night” Survival Kit
Don’t let kids’ favorite pajamas or their “must-have” stuffed animal get lost in the moving truck. Prepare a separate bag for each child filled with:
- A change of clothes and comfortable pajamas.
- A toothbrush and any other toiletries along with any medication they might need.
- A favorite snack and a water bottle.
- A couple of new toys or books to keep them entertained.
- A set of sheets and a pillow. The familiar smell of home helps kids sleep better.
6. Settling into the New Southwest Florida Home
After the truck is unloaded, try to set up the children’s bedroom first. Having their own space with their bed and toys gives them a sense of security.
- Explore the Area: Spend the first few days getting to know your new Southwest Florida. Find the local library or the best place to get ice cream!
- Give it Time: Regression is common when moving with children. Some may experience sleep problems while others may become even more attached to you. It’s ok to offer more snuggles as they adapt.
Why Families Choose Moving Mavericks
Shifting a family is different to shifting a bachelor pad. It’s an approach with more empathy and requires heightened levels of coordination. The Moving Mavericks is honored to be a preferred provider for family moves in Southwest Florida.
When you work with us, you’re guaranteed:
A Professional Team: Movers that appreciate the need for a calm and child friendly atmosphere.
- Speed: So you can have your children fully settled in as soon as possible.
- Simplicity: No additional costs that obfuscate your peace of mind.
Ready for a stress free family move? Reach out to us at Moving Mavericks for a free estimate at (239) 722-0000.
Your Questions Answered
Q1: How can I assist my teenager with moving?
Your teen may mourn the loss of a familiar friendship group. It is ok to acknowledge their loss. Let them communicate with their previous associates. It may also be helpful for them to participate in local community activities in Southwest Florida.
Q2: Should I move during the school year or summer?
Summer is often the easiest time for a relocation. However, moving during the school year allows children to make new friends right away. There is no ‘best’ time for a move; it’s a matter of what works best for your family.
Q3: How can I keep my toddler safe on moving day?
If you don’t have a babysitter, you can place your toddler in a high chair or playpen with their favorite toys. Moving heavy items requires constant supervision.
Q4: Do you offer packing services for kids’ toys?
Yes! Moving Mavericks can pack everything, including toys. For precious items like LEGO sets or dollhouses, we even include extra padding. For details, give us a call at (239) 722-0000.
Conclusion
Moving is a wonderful opportunity to make new memories as a family. When moving with kids keep them involved, while ensuring their safety, and working with professionals like The Moving Mavericks can make a frantic move a happy experience. We can’t wait to set your family up in your new place in Southwest Florida.