Essential Tips for Moving with Toddlers

Making the Transition Smooth and Stress-Free

Moving can be hard for everyone, but it’s even tougher for young children. For toddlers, moving can feel like their whole world is changing, and it can be very confusing for them. Here are some easy tips to help make moving with toddlers a smoother experience for your little one:

Learn how to make Moving with Toddlers easier with helpful strategies to support your child's adjustment to a new home.

Tips for Making Moving with Toddlers Easier

Reassure your child they’re moving with you.
Make sure your toddler understands that the entire family is moving together. This will prevent any fears they might have about being left behind or moving alone.
Visit the new house before the move (if possible).
Take your toddler to the new house a few times so they can start to adjust to the new environment. They may either get excited about the change or feel uneasy because it’s unfamiliar.
Create a memory book of the old house.
Take photos of every room, especially areas your toddler loves, like a favorite hiding spot or a wall where you’ve tracked their height. Make an album your toddler can flip through to help them remember the old house. If you’re relocating to a different neighborhood or state, capture images of familiar spots like the corner store or local park to help your toddler transition.
Involve your toddler in packing their room.
Let your child help pack their toys and personal items. This will reassure them that their favorite things are coming with them and make them feel more secure knowing where their belongings are. Clearly label their boxes, and make sure these are part of the first things you unpack.

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Essential Steps for Moving with Toddlers: Making the Transition Smooth

Pack a special box with essentials.
If your furniture and other belongings won’t arrive right away, pack a separate box with your toddler’s most important items—like their favorite toys, books, or blankets—and take it with you. This will ensure they have some comfort items during the transition.
Say goodbye to the old house.
Before leaving, take your toddler on a tour of the house to say goodbye to each room. It might feel silly to you, but it can help your toddler emotionally process the move. It may even offer you some closure, especially if you’ve spent years in the old home.
Set up your toddler’s room first.
Once you arrive at the new house, prioritize setting up your toddler’s room, even if the rest of the house is still in chaos. This will give them a familiar, safe space to retreat to when the move feels overwhelming.
Unpack the kitchen next.
Ensure your toddler knows they can access the kitchen for snacks, meals, or drinks. Having a familiar and functioning kitchen can provide your child with a sense of normalcy.
Be more available to your child.
During the first few weeks in the new house, try to spend more time with your toddler to help them adjust. If you work, consider taking some time off or getting up earlier to give them extra attention.
Postpone any vacations or additional changes.
Delay any family trips or major events until your toddler feels settled in the new home. More changes, even small ones, can make them feel even more disoriented during this already significant transition.