Kids have the capacity to complicate almost every situation you can think of, but when it comes to long distance moving, nothing can throw a spanner in the works quite like the addition of kids!
That said, with plenty of advance planning and professional guidance from long distance moving companies in Vancouver, you can make a long distance move as smooth as possible, even with screaming little ones and whinging teenagers; here’s how:
Have a plan
Try to create a moving schedule that includes every little detail associated with the move, and who will be helping with what. It may be that kids who are a little older can help with decluttering, or cleaning, while younger ones can pack their toys away or simply sit quietly doing an activity amid the hustle and bustle.
Planning and ticking things off your schedule will help give you a sense of achievement and ensure that nothing gets forgotten, while also giving your kids a sense of involvement and responsibility.
Declutter first
There may well be plenty of items that you no longer need or want in your new home, and decluttering before the move can help save time and effort. The less you take with you, the less stressful the move will be, and that’s always welcome when kids are involved!
Ensure essentials are easily accessible
While packing, put together a box for every family member containing items they might need on the day of the move, and when you first arrive (or if hiring packers and movers, advise them of what should be kept to one side). From toiletries, medication and snacks, to clothes and toys, having them readily available could help prevent tantrums on moving day.
Keep your kids up to speed
It’s always a good idea to keep your kids updated with every aspect of the move, as it can be a daunting time for them. Explain as much as you can to them so that they understand why the move is happening, and how it will be great for them once they settle in. Also give them the chance to communicate their fears or concerns to you, so that you can discuss them as a family.
Hire professional movers and packers
This is one of the single most effective ways to reduce the stress of a long distance move, as not only will a moving company help you pack and move all of your items, but they’ll unpack them at the other end as well. Their experience and expertise will help you focus on your kids while the move is ongoing, without the worry of packing up and shifting everything. They’ll help keep you calm, even if everyone and everything around you, is anything but!
Check out the new area
If possible, visiting the new area with your family before the move actually takes place, can help them visualise their new home and become more familiar with their new surroundings. Carry out plenty of research to find things in the area your kids might love to do or places they might like to go to, such as sports facilities, parks and malls etc.
Keep your emotions in check
A long distance move can be incredibly stressful, and there may be times when you want to scream, shout and blow off steam. But remember that your kids bounce off your emotions, so if you’re getting angry with some part of the process or frustrated, chances are that they’ll start to feel the same way too, and then the entire family are feeling grumpy and irritable, and that’s never a recipe for a smooth move!
Hiring long distance movers in Vancouver, BC and following the guidance listed above, can make the entire moving process go without a hitch, even when the distance is long, and there are kids involved.
