Moving with Small Children

Often times my open houses and referrals help me to meet families with babies or small children activitely looking to purchase their next home.  In my continued effort to provide a smooth transition in all situations I thought I would offer some helpful tips for moving with children.

Tip One is to pack your baby’s nursery last and set it up first in your new house.  This allows the baby to have the least amount of time in a state of flux while waiting to sleep in their familiar crib with their familiar surroundngs.  Also, decorate the baby’s new room as similar as possible to their old room.  This provides a sense of comfort as well.

Tip Two is to take a serious look for safety concerns in your new home.  Raise all blind cords, cover electrical outlets, check for open stairs or other places that could cause a fall, confirm your smoke detectors are working.  Experts recommend that you crawl on the floor to look for these situations from the baby’s view…you are likely too tired for that, but considering that perspective is important.  Here is a site with an overall safety checklist for babies. https://www.parents.com/baby/safety/babyproofing/babyproofing-your-home-from-top-to-bottom/

Tip Three is to pack for the baby or child for a longer time than you think you need and keep those belongings with you at all times.  Movers are nice people and their trip is straightforward and they are always on time…until they are not.  Be prepared for surprises by having everything you need in any situation.

Tip Four…hire help on moving day.  Yes, it is the obvious answer.  You will be busy and tired and stressed.  For the sake of the baby or child, let them leave the old home in a state of peace (aside from the boxes everywhere) and arrive at the new home with a few of their things set up providing a new sense of security.

Finally, stay positive in front of the children.  Let them know all of the wonderful reasons for the move and help them to enjoy the new home as much as you do.  You will enjoy this new home for years to come!

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