Moving homes can be a stressful and challenging experience, especially for kids. It presents major lifestyle changes, from leaving their school and friends to changing their entire everyday routine.

Make sure your child enjoys a smooth and successful transition with the following tips.

1. Prep your child for the move
   
   The first and most important way to prepare your child is by discussing the move. Open up a conversation with the whole family and tell them what’s about to come. Whether they’re toddlers or teenagers, share as much information as you can, such as their new address, what the neighborhood is like, the new school they’ll be going to (if applicable), and the reason why the family is moving. Try to have a family discussion as soon as possible. You want your kids to know about the move before anyone else tells them first.
   
   
2. Let your child get involved
   
   Let your child contribute and be a part of the home moving process. There are plenty of ways to make it into a fun and memorable activity, such as the following:
   
   Sorting their belongings – Ask your kids to go through their things and figure out which ones they want to keep or throw. Through this, you will be able to get some of the sorting done, all while keeping your children involved.
   
   Packing their stuff – For kids that are old enough, ask them to pack their things and place them in the appropriate boxes. Teach them how to properly arrange and pack their belongings.
   
   Designing their new room – Moving into a new home allows your child to design their own space. Let them choose the room colors, the bedsheets, and the decorations. Moving into a new room they are already familiar with will ease the transition.
   
   Exploring the new neighborhood – Show the kids around their new home and check out the things to do, from playgrounds to ice cream parlors.
   
   
3. Plan your moving day
   
   Before moving day, prepare a bag full of your child’s clothes, toiletries, gadgets, and the like. Since it might take a few weeks for everything to be unpacked in the new home, make sure your child has all the essentials. It would also help to give your child a task that will keep him preoccupied during the moving day. They can be in charge of checking all the drawers and closets, making sure that all the boxes are sealed properly, and watching the pets (if you have any).
   
   
4. Host a good-bye party
   
   Saying goodbye to friends and your old home is one of the most difficult parts of the moving process for your child. A going-away celebration can lighten the mood and give your child closure. Throw a farewell party in your old home and invite your child’s closest friends. You can also ask your child’s teacher for permission to have a good-bye lunch in their class.