Moving with Kids or Pets? Here’s What You Need to Know

Moving to a new home is a big event for anyone. It brings excitement, stress, and a lot of change. But when you have kids or pets, the process becomes even more challenging. Children and animals are creatures of habit. They like routine and feel safe in familiar surroundings. So, a big move can leave them feeling confused, anxious, or upset.

Start Planning Early

The more time you have to prepare, the better. Kids and pets need time to adjust. Start talking to your children about the move as early as possible.  You can use some simple language to explain what’s happening and why. If you have pets, keep their routine the same for as long as you can while packing.  You need to make a checklist and timeline to stay organised. You need to break down tasks like sorting, packing, paperwork, and moving day responsibilities. This will reduce stress for the whole family.

Involve Your Kids in the Process

Children often feel left out or confused during a move. Involving them helps them feel more in control. Let them pack some of their own things, like toys or books. You need to ask how they’d like their new room to look. If possible, take them to visit the new place before the move. If that’s not possible, use online maps or videos to show them what to expect.

 Keep Routines Stable

Kids and pets thrive on routine. You need to try to keep mealtimes, playtimes, and bedtimes the same, even while packing and during the move. This will help them feel more secure. For pets, don’t change their feeding schedule or walking time.  You need to keep their bed, toys, and bowls in familiar spots until the very end.

Create a Safe Zone During Packing

Moving boxes, loud noises, and lots of people can be stressful.  You need to create a calm and quiet area where your kids or pets can rest without being disturbed. For younger children, you can set up a “play zone” with their favourite toys, books, and snacks. For pets, make a cosy corner with their bed, blanket, and water bowl. This will help them feel safe while you focus on packing.

Pack an Essentials Bag

On moving day, things can get hectic. Pack a small bag for each child and pet with everything they might need in the first 24 to 48 hours. This includes:

For Kids:

• Favorite toy or blanket
• Snacks and water
• Change of clothes

For Pets:

• Food and water bowls
• Leash or carrier
• Pet food
• Favorite toy or blanket
• Any medication

Having these essentials handy will help avoid panic and make the transition smoother.

Prepare for Moving Day

Moving day can be overwhelming.  You must try to keep your children and pets away from all the action. If possible, ask a family member or friend to watch them. You can also hire a babysitter or pet sitter for the day. If they need to be with you, make sure they stay in a quiet room away from heavy lifting or open doors.

Settle into the New Home Slowly

Once you arrive, don’t rush to unpack everything at once. Focus first on creating a familiar and comfortable space for your kids and pets. This helps them feel more at home. For pets, unpack their items first and let them explore the house slowly. Keep them indoors until they are comfortable and secure. For cats, especially, introduce them to one room at a time.

So above all, you need to know that your kids or pets take extra planning, patience, and love. But it’s also a time to grow closer as a family. Keep communication open, stick to routines, and give everyone time to settle in. Every family is different, so trust your instincts and do what works best for you.