Moving is stressful for adults under the best of circumstances. For a toddler, it can be confusing and overwhelming. The reactions of a young child who doesn’t understand what’s going on can make the process of moving more difficult for the entire family. Anticipating how your toddler is likely to be feeling and taking steps to help your little one cope can make moving easier on everyone.
Explain What’s Going to Happen in a Way Your Child Can Understand
Tell your toddler where you’re going to live and what the new house is like. Talk about things that will be the same and things that will be different (i.e., new school, new friends, possibly different weather conditions, etc.). The more kids know what to expect, the less they tend to wonder and worry. Invite your child to ask questions and answer them to the best of your ability.
It may be helpful to read children’s books about moving. Stories can help your toddler better understand and prepare for the upcoming changes.
Involve Your Child in the Moving Process
Have your toddler help with packing, even if that just means putting a few items in a box or decorating boxes with stickers and scribbles. Including your child in the packing process can make the upcoming move seem more real and can also get your toddler emotionally invested.
As you go through belongings, figure out what you can get rid of. Talk to your toddler about selling or donating some toys so other children can enjoy them.
Discuss how to decorate your toddler’s room in the new house. Your child may want to keep some things the same but may also welcome the opportunity to make the new room different. Talk about what color to paint the walls, where to place furniture and other plans to get your child excited about moving to the new house.
Keep Your Toddler as Calm and Busy as Possible on Moving Day
If you’re not moving far from your current home, it may be best to have your toddler spend the day with a family member or friend and come to the new house after you’ve had a chance to get a bit settled. If that’s not possible, make sure that your toddler has healthy snacks, books and games, as well as their own space, available at all times on moving day.
Stick to Your Old Routine as Much as Possible
Toddlers need structure. If life is unpredictable, your child is likely to become irritable and throw temper tantrums. In the weeks leading up to the move, stick to the same bedtime and nap schedule.
Maintain your routine after you arrive at the new house. If you have a family ritual, such as a weekly game night, keep it going after you move. The consistency will make the transition to your new home easier on your toddler.
