Tips to Move Cross-Country With Children

Moving across the country differs from moving down the street or within the same city. While you still need to worry about packing and transporting your items from one place to another, you'll have to consider the length of your trip. Overnight stays with a moving van or movers following behind can complicate things quickly. Making the situation even trickier is when there are kids involved.

Fortunately, you don't have to stress about getting your kids on board with the idea of moving cross-country. Here are some tips to make the experience smoother for everyone.

1. Be Open and Honest With Them

Once you've decided to move, your kids will naturally have questions. Depending on their age, they may or may not understand the concept of moving and whether it's permanent. However, it's important to explain everything you can so they have all the information necessary to understand what's happening. You should also talk to them about any challenges you'll face, such as moving in a rush or whether you'll be starting a new job immediately once you arrive.

2. Budget Your Time According to Their Needs (As Necessary)

When moving, there are so many things to do that it's easy to get overwhelmed. However, neglecting your kids during this time can make the transition much harder. Although it will be challenging to accommodate their needs while juggling everything else, make sure to use whatever time you have in the best way possible. Help them pack, talk about your new location, and answer questions about school, friends, and anything else they may be concerned about. A little conversation can go a long way.

3. Focus on the Positive Elements

If your kids are already in school, they'll likely focus on the fact that they have to leave their friends behind. Moving can be even more stressful, and it's easy for children to focus on the negatives. So, try to spin the experience as a positive one. Find some fun things to do during your trip and talk about them. Discuss the new neighborhood and what your kids will get to do over there.

Another way to focus on the positives is to discuss your moving experiences when you were kids. Ideally, you may have moved across the country, but even if it was to a neighboring state, the experience is very similar. Tell your kids how you felt and adjusted to your new location afterward. Doing this can help them acclimate better, knowing that you went through the same thing.

4. Add Some Fun to the Experience

Are there any cool sights you can see during your trip? If possible, maybe you can spend a couple of nights in a specific area so you can do more than just eat and visit a roadside attraction? Ask your kids what they want to do and see how easy it is to accommodate their requests. You can also find something fun and exciting in your new location and do that as soon as you arrive.

Need Help Moving Across the Country? Contact Us!

Juggling so many tasks is hard when managing kids and everyone's belongings. We can help with the moving logistics so you can focus on what matters most. Contact us to see how we can make your move easier!