How to Survive a Move with Young Kids (and Keep Your Sanity)

Moving with little ones is basically like trying to pack boxes while refereeing WWE smackdowns in your living room. Chaotic? Always. Impossible? Nope. As a mom of four kids under 8 (and a few military PCS moves under my belt), I’ve learned a lot about keeping it together when everything feels upside down. If you’re gearing up for a move with kiddos in tow, here are my go-to tips for surviving the madness.

1. Break the News Like It’s an Adventure

When it’s time to tell your kids about the move, don’t drop it like bad news. Make it exciting. Try: “Guess what? We’re going on a big adventure to a brand-new house!” Expect a mix of cheers, tears, or full-on Broadway drama. Whatever happens, lean into it and let them process.

2. Give Them “Jobs”

Kids love to help (even when it’s not actually helpful). Hand over a stack of boxes, markers, and stickers, and let them go wild. Sure, you might find a box labeled “Fragile” stuffed with Legos and stuffed animals, but hey—it kept them busy and feeling included.

3. Pack a Kid Survival Kit

Moving day is no time to wing it. Pack each child their own survival kit: snacks, water, favorite toys, coloring books, and a surprise treat or two. Nothing diffuses a meltdown faster than pulling out a cookie at just the right time.

4. Keep Routines Familiar

Moving is a huge change, and kids feel that. Stick to regular mealtimes, naps, and bedtime as much as you can. And don’t forget the comfort items—pack the favorite blanket or bedtime storybook last and unpack it first.

5. Make the New House Fun

If you can, take your kids to the new house before moving day. Walk them through their new rooms, let them pick a corner for their toys, or show off the backyard. Frame it as a big win: “Look at this awesome new space to play in!”

6. Create a Moving Day Playlist

Music makes everything better. Put together a playlist with family favorites and crank it up while you pack or unpack. Nothing breaks the tension like a mid-box dance party—even if it means singing “Baby Shark” for the millionth time.

7. Expect the Unexpected

Lost teddy bears, hunger meltdowns, sudden obsessions with the moving truck—it’s all part of the deal. The key is flexibility. Go with the flow and remember that this move will become one of those “remember when…” family stories.

8. Ask for Help (Seriously)

Moving with kids is not a solo sport. Recruit friends, family, or even hire a babysitter for moving day. An extra set of hands is priceless when you’re juggling boxes and tantrums.

9. Explore Together

Once you’re settled in (or at least have the couch out of plastic wrap), explore your new neighborhood as a family. Walk to the playground, find the nearest ice cream shop, or pop into the library. Turning it into a mini adventure helps kids feel more at home.

10. Celebrate the Win

At the end of the day, order pizza, spread a blanket on the floor, and call it a picnic. Toast with juice boxes (or something stronger for the parents) and celebrate surviving the move. Because you did it—you moved with kids, and you lived to tell the tale.

Final Thoughts

Moving with kids is messy, loud, and sometimes hilarious—but it doesn’t have to be miserable. With planning, patience, and a sense of humor, you can turn the chaos into a memory-making adventure. Embrace the wild, laugh when you can, and look forward to the new chapter waiting for you in your new home.

📲 Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat! I’d love to share more tips, connect you with trusted resources, and help make your family’s next transition as smooth as possible.