Tips for Moving with a Toddler

Moving is intimidating, but throw a busy toddler into the mix, and it’s straight up frightening. From bumping between boxes to pack to trying to figure out how to keep your child safe, it’s mission impossible. The good news? It’s completely possible with a little thoughtful planning. Continue reading below for tips for moving with a toddler and how to make your move easy, while keeping your kid safe and happy.

Pre-Move Prep 

The key to a successful move of a toddler is planning. Start by engaging your child in the packing process in creative, developmentally appropriate ways. Let them fill small boxes with printed labels such as “packing toys” or put stickers on closed boxes. Engaging them can reduce their anxiety about the move and create positive attitudes towards the process. 

You and your toddler need to get synched with one another. Out-of-sync is fun, but having routine set-down times for playtime, snack time, and napping will calm your toddler and make them happier. If you can weather the getting-ready-to-move routine—toddlers love routine, and routine will stop meltdown. 

Pre-telling the relocation to your toddler is also advisable. Toddlers will not get everything that is going on, but let them know that your family is relocating to a new house in simple terms to prepare for what is occurring. Reading stories or books about moving with a toddler can prepare your child for the concept. 

Their safety is your first concern on moving day. With boxes, furniture, and movers in continuous motion all day long, it’s not easy staying out of the way of a curious toddler. Have an adult—such as a family member or trusted babysitter—stay with your child all day. If this isn’t possible, set up a toddler play area with favorite games, snacks, and toys to keep them occupied. If you’re hiring professionals, such as Avondale movers, ensure they’re aware of the play area and can work around it safely. 

Toddlers will wear themselves out and become irritable in a matter of moments if they don’t get their way on moving day, so make sure to keep them occupied. Make a “moving day survival kit” with coloring books, treats, puzzles, and all else that will engage them. In a pinch, access toddler-approved apps or videos for particularly long move-in or move-out days. If you’re also moving with a baby, consider having a separate care plan in place to manage both needs smoothly.

Settling In 

When you finally arrive at the new home, you can then proceed and design your toddler’s room first. Simple items such as their bed, blankets, and toys can all be used in trying to provide them with that feeling of security and familiarity in the new home. By informing them that they do have a place that is familiar and safe, you make them feel that this new house is home. 

Second, attempt to establish routines as early as possible. Toddlers enjoy predictability, and keeping them on their normal routine of eating, nap time, and bedtime could help make adjustment less difficult for them. Introducing them slowly to your new life in small doses over the course of time—such as the parks in your community, neighbors, or playgroups—might make adjustment simpler and even enjoyable for your child. When wondering how to move with a toddler, small steps like these go a long way.

A New Chapter for Your Family 

It’s a journey in and of itself to move a young child, but it can be an experience where your family grows together and creates new memories as a family. If you are prepared, know what the child needs, and are going to stand patiently through the ride, you will be able to take something that feels like chaos and create a new path. Remember that each action you take, however small it may be, brings you a step closer towards being comfortable at your new house with your loved ones. You’ve got this!