One of the greatest challenges associated with moving is handling the children and pets. Sometimes, the very aspect of moving from “home” to an unknown place is stressful. Therefore, you will need to show a tremendous amount of patience and understanding during this transition. However, as you will see below, there are a number of things you can do to make the move much easier.
For children, we recommend you call in the troops, asking family and friends to help pack. To keep things uncomplicated, have a family member watch the children so you and your help can get some serious work done. Keep in mind that we suggest you keep the children’s favorite toys or stuffed animals out, allowing the children to pack these. With this, the kids will know that their most beloved possessions are going to the new home.
Although challenging, try to keep to as much of a normal schedule as possible. Again, your children are going to feel the stress of the move so by still having dinner at 6:00 p.m., baths at 8:00 p.m., and bedtime at 9:00 p.m., they will handle things much better. This would also be a great time to do something special with the children. For instance, you might take them to a movie, go for nightly walks, or buy new bedtime books.
You should also provide each child with a small suitcase in which some favorite clothes and books would be packed. Explain to the children that these suitcases are going in the car or on the plane so they will be with them at all times. If possible, locate the new school online and sit down with the children, showing them pictures while telling them all the things their new school offers. This way, when they arrive at the new home and attend school on the first day, it will be somewhat familiar.
For the pets, again try to keep to a normal schedule if possible. For instance, if you typically walk the dog each night, keep this as a part of the routine. However, if you generally walk for an hour, you could cut this back to 20 minutes until you become settled into the new home. You will also need a good pet carrier, even if taking your pets to the new home via car. In addition to making them feel more secure, it will also keep them physically protected. Then, visit your veterinarian or retail store to purchase a new ID tag for your pet. On this, include your new address, new phone number, veterinarian’s contact information, and the animal’s name.