How to Move House with Young Children: Practical Tips

Moving house is consistently ranked as one of life's most stressful events — and that's before you factor in managing young children on the day. With some planning, you can make the experience positive for the whole family.

Telling Children About the Move

Tell children about the move as early as possible, in age-appropriate language. Frame it positively — focus on the exciting things about the new home and area. If possible, take children to visit the new home before moving day and let them choose their bedroom.

Involving Them in Packing

Give children their own small box to pack themselves. Let them decide which toys and books go in it, decorate it with stickers, and keep it with them on the journey. Avoid packing all of a child's favourite items too far in advance.

Keeping Routines Consistent

In the weeks around a move, try to maintain as many of your children's normal routines as possible — mealtimes, bedtimes, school and clubs. Routine is how children process change and uncertainty.

Planning for Moving Day Itself

The easiest option for young children on moving day is to not have them there. See if grandparents, friends or a childminder can take the children for the day. If you do have children with you, designate one adult whose sole job is to manage them.

Setting Up Children's Rooms First

When you arrive at the new home, make setting up children's bedrooms the first priority. Having their own familiar space — bed made, toys in place, nightlight plugged in — gives children a safe base.