Moving with children can feel like an emotional juggling act. You’re not just coordinating boxes and bookings — you’re also managing little people with big feelings. Whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, having a plan can make all the difference.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know to move house with kids — from preparing them emotionally to keeping them entertained and helping them settle into their new home.
Talk to Your Kids Early About the Move
Children can feel overwhelmed by big changes, especially when they don’t understand what’s happening. Open, age-appropriate communication is key. Talk to your kids early about the move, explaining where you’re going, why, and what it means for them. Encourage questions and listen to their concerns.
Involve them in the process where possible. Let them help choose new bedroom colours or decide which toys to pack first. Giving kids a voice helps them feel included and more in control.
If you’re moving locally, take a drive past the new house or visit a nearby park to help them become familiar with the area. If that’s not an option, explore the new location together online.
Involve Kids in Packing and Stay Organised
Packing a family home takes time — and patience. Start early and tackle it room by room. Assign children age-appropriate tasks, like sorting toys or helping to label boxes.
Need a hand? Hire A Packer offers professional packing services that take the pressure off, so you can focus on your family instead of the logistics.
Another time-saving tip: rent your moving boxes. Hire A Box delivers sturdy, eco-friendly moving boxes to your door as early as the next day. They’re affordable, stack neatly, and can be kept for up to three months at no extra cost — ideal for families who need a bit more flexibility.
Pack an essentials kit for each child to keep with you on moving day. Include snacks, a change of clothes, books, comfort items, and a tablet or colouring and sticker activities. This will help them stay calm and entertained while everything else is in motion.
Moving Day with Kids: How to Keep Them Busy and Safe
Moving day is often fast paced, with heavy lifting, open doors, and distractions everywhere. Plan ahead – keep your kids entertained and out of harm’s way.
Set up a safe play space in a quiet corner with puzzles, colouring books, stickers or LEGO. Load up a tablet with movies or audiobooks. For older kids, small responsibilities like checking boxes off a list can help them feel useful.
If you can, enlist a trusted family member or friend to help supervise younger children or take them out for a few hours.
With Hire A Mover, you’ll have a professional, reliable team to manage the heavy lifting efficiently — giving you peace of mind and space to focus on your family.
Helping Children Adjust to a New Home
After the move, help your kids settle in by prioritising their space first. Unpack their room right away so they’re surrounded by familiar belongings.
Try to maintain existing routines, including bedtimes, meals, and screen time. Familiar structure can be comforting in an unfamiliar environment.
Take time to explore the neighbourhood together — visit the local park, café, or school. These outings help children feel more connected to their new surroundings.
Give them space to express their feelings. Every child adjusts at their own pace, so be patient and supportive.
Quick Tips for Moving with Kids
- Talk to your children early and involve them in the process
- Pack an essentials kit with snacks, toys, and comfort items
- Set up their bedroom first in the new house
- Maintain consistent routines to ease the transition
- Use trusted services like Hire A Mover, Hire A Packer, and Hire A Box to lighten the load.
Moving house with kids may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and support, it can be a smooth and even rewarding experience. Professional services like Hire A Mover exist to make your move faster, easier, and less stressful — so you can focus on what truly matters: helping your family settle into a new home.
Ready to move the easy way? Visit www.hireamover.com.au to book your move today.