Moving is exciting, but let’s be honest, it can also be chaotic, especially when you have kids. Between packing boxes, coordinating movers, and managing all the details of a new home, keeping your little ones entertained might feel impossible. But with a little planning and creativity, you can make a moving day smoother and even fun for the whole family.

Here are some tips to keep your kids busy, happy, and safe during your move:

1) Pack a "Move Day Kit" For Kids

Just like you pack essentials for yourself, make a special kit for the kids. Include snacks, water, a few favorite toys, coloring books, headphones for music or audiobooks, and maybe even a tablet loaded with games or movies. Having everything in one bag keeps your kids occupied without having to dig through boxes. If you have more than one bag, pack one for each so they feel special, and if your kids are like my kids, make sure what is in them are the exact same haha.

2) Let Them Help

Kids love feeling involved. Depending on their age, let them label boxes with stickers or draw pictures of what’s inside. Give them small, safe tasks like carrying lightweight items or organizing their own toys. Feeling helpful gives them a sense of control amidst the moving chaos.

3) Create a “Moving Scavenger Hunt”

Turn packing into a game. Make a checklist of items for your kids to find and pack, like “Find all the red toys” or “Pack three stuffed animals.” This keeps them busy and adds an element of fun to the day.

4) Schedule breaks for fun

Don’t let the move be all work. Plan small breaks where kids can run around, play outside, or have a snack. Even 10–15 minutes of downtime can help reduce crankiness and restore energy for the next round of packing or moving.

5) Set Up a Play Zone in the New Home

If possible, set up a designated area in the new home with toys, books, and comfort items so kids have a familiar spot to play while boxes are being unloaded. Get their bedrooms and play room set up first so they have a special place and a way to take a nap if needed. This helps them feel at home right away and gives you a small window to tackle moving tasks.

6) Hire a Babysitter or Enlist Family Help

On particularly busy moving days, consider hiring a babysitter or asking a relative or friend to take the kids out for a few hours. A trip to the park, a local indoor play center, or even just a long walk around the neighborhood can give everyone breathing room.

7) Keep Routines Familiar

Moving can be disruptive, so try to keep mealtimes, naps, and bedtime consistent. Familiar routines help children feel secure even amid change. One of my favorite tips is setting alarms on your phone to help remind you when it’s time for those transitions to happen.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful for your kids, or you. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn a hectic day into a fun and memorable family adventure. After all, your new home is the start of a new chapter, and involving your kids in the journey makes it all the more exciting. Do you need more tips like this? Text me! I specialize in relocation and helping my clients have a smooth transition amidst the chaos.

Jess Stom REALTOR®
Agent with CB&A, Realtors
📲 346-336-4707
💻 [email protected]
www.homeinhoustontexas.com
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