Some people say that moving is one of the most stressful experiences in life. How about moving with a kid or multiple kids in tow… STRESS on another level!
But it doesn’t have to be! I have moved 7 times in the last 8 years. My head hurts even thinking about it. My daughter is nearly 4, and we have done 3 moves since she was born, and one of those moves was an international move too! Having just completed my latest move, I wanted to share some tips that I find helpful.
Hopefully, these will help you too if you are moving!
Clear out – Before even attempting to pack up, have a HUGE clear out. Be RUTHLESS Mama! Look through your wardrobe, and get rid of anything that doesn’t fit anymore or anything you haven’t worn in over a year! I had to face the fact that my cute dress from 7 years ago was no longer cute on my 7-years-older self!
Same goes for your spouse and kiddos’ closets! You can resell these items on sites like Thredup.com or Poshmark.com. For kids stuff, check out your local consignment stores. Also clear out your kitchen, garage and those junk drawers that we all have. You can donate to any local Goodwill stores or your local Buy Nothing Neighborhood Facebook groups.
Break it down – Start packing gradually room by room. An hour here or there, when your baby is asleep or your kids are in school makes a big difference! It will make it all feel less overwhelming, and you will be surprised at how much progress you make. Leave things that you use every day until the very end, right before you move.
Pack these items in clearly marked boxes, such as “everyday items”. That will make unpacking on the other side a lot easier for you to settle into your new home. Or if you can’t face the thought of packing, there are plenty of local San Diego moving companies that will pack for you.
Involve your kids – What?? “Are you crazy?”, I hear you shout! I know it might take longer, but having your kids help pack up their favorite stuffed animals and toys will make it easier for them to understand what is happening. Otherwise, they can feel like you are taking away all their stuff and have a huge meltdown. I learned this one the hard way!
Make it fun – If you have packed up all your furniture and you still have a few days left before the big move, why not play camp out with your kids. Have dinner on a picnic blanket on the floor, sleep on the ground, and make it into a fun game for those last few days! You might be uncomfortable but they will love it.
Settling in – If you can, introduce something new and exciting to your kid’s new room. We made sure we had all her familiar furniture and room décor but also added in a princess canopy to her bed, which she was so excited about! It made settling into the new house much easier. You don’t have to spend a lot of money – IKEA has some great cheap options for kids rooms, or see if you can find any items that people are donating on Buy Nothing.
Don’t Stress – I know this one is easier said than done! Remember your kids will pick up on any anxiety you are feeling, and will also start to feel uneasy. Take time out of your packing and do fun family activities to destress or take some Mama alone time! Treat yourself to a pampering evening at home (lock that bathroom door for some peace and quiet!) and indulge in your favorite chocolate or wine!
So Mama, what are you waiting for? Go get started on that clear-out! Best of luck with your move, and if you have any top tips for moving house smoothly please share them!
