As a parent, whether you dread or relish sending your kids off for their first day of school, the back-to-school season is hectic! Add a move into the mix, and things can feel downright overwhelming. This is where a little thoughtful planning and the right strategies are invaluable for keeping your family organized and sane during this transition.
While we don’t envy your situation, no matter how exciting or how great of an upgrade your move might be, we’re here with our top tips for moving with kids during the back-to-school rush.
Deep breath, you’ve got this!
1. Get a Head Start on School Prep
Retailers everywhere seem to start the back to school sales earlier and earlier each summer. So, you should have no trouble knocking out school supply shopping, not to mention any necessary paperwork required before their first day (updated medical forms, maybe?) Having backpacks packed and lunchboxes ready can help your child feel grounded, even while their surroundings are shifting.
- Pro-tip: If you’re moving districts or states, request school records early and contact the new school about registration requirements.
2. Create a “Moving Week” Calendar
Most of us are visual learners, but kids are especially attuned to visual aids — the more colorful, the better! Post an eye-catching calendar that outlines what to expect each day, whether that means packing on a Tuesday, school visits on Thursday, goodbyes on Saturday, etc. Kids crave control, especially in situations where they have very little; this little hack gives them a sense of ownership and routine that can really make a difference.
3. Pack a “First Week” Essentials Bin
It’s hard to envision yourself on the other side of the move when you’re surrounded by boxes and half-emptied closets. But, this step will pay off big time. Future You will be super grateful that you took the time to close your eyes and imagine exactly what you and your kids will need during that first week in your new place, especially if that week coincides with their first week back in the classroom.
Think of big ticket items like laundered and pressed clothes, the aforementioned school supplies, comfort items (this is no time to lose a beloved stuffy or blanket), and favorite snacks in a clearly labeled bin or suitcase. Doing this should save you from rummaging through boxes the night before school starts.
- Pro-tip: Don’t forget chargers, bedtime books, and relied-upon items like a white noise machine, if your kiddos depend on it for quality sleep.
4. Visit the New School and Neighborhood
If possible, tour the school, walk the halls, and explore the neighborhood before the first day. Familiarity helps ease first-day jitters and while that’s not always possible if you’re moving across state lines, you can certainly hop online and see if the new school has a virtual tour.
- Pro-tip: If you are moving to a completely new community, research points of interest that your kids might be excited about and even make a plan to visit one the first weekend following the return to school.
5. Stick to Familiar Routines
Amid the chaos of boxes and schedules, try to keep bedtime, mealtimes, and screen time consistent. Predictability is comforting for kids and comforted kids typically mean calmer parents.
6. Get Them Involved
Returning to our earlier point about control, really hype how much your kids CAN do and choose, relative to your family’s relocation. For instance, encourage them to decorate their new room, help label boxes, and even sort what stays and what goes.
Involving your kids in age-appropriate tasks helps them feel part of the process rather than sidelined by it. This is particularly helpful for any child who isn’t feeling jazzed about the prospect of moving away from their house or hometown.
7. Plan a Fun Reset Day
After the move and before school starts, if time allows (seriously, don’t force it and inadvertently add pressure), try to schedule a low-key family day to regroup. Low-key is the name of the game here; we’re talking movie night, mini golf, or a pancake breakfast in your new kitchen.
Are furbabies part of your family? If so, take a look at Packing up with Pets: Tips and Tricks for an Easier Move
Is moving disruptive? Absolutely. By its very nature, moving disrupts what you and your kids have known; however, it doesn’t have to upend your family’s rhythm. With a little planning, communication, and patience, you can create a smooth transition that sets everyone up for a successful school year in your happy new home.
Sure, this might seem easier said than done. And that’s why we’re standing by to help you manage the logistics of your move. If you need our help, simply contact us online or call 603-267-8737.
