Moving to a new home often brings up an assortment of feelings. While the opportunity for a fresh start can be exciting, the transition can also bring up sadness and anxiety as you leave behind a home that holds so many memories. As adults, we often forget that kids feel this same mix of emotions during this big transition—sometimes even more so. Especially if the home you’re moving away from is the only one they’ve ever known.

Thankfully, an easy way to ward off some of those negative emotions is to use your family move as an opportunity to bond with your kids. By doing so, you can not only ensure that there are many positive memories associated with the move, but you can enter the next chapter of your life as a happier and stronger family.

Plan Small Tasks for the Kids

Nancy Zafrani from Oz Moving says that kids that are tasked with small jobs on moving day always look happy to be part of the action. “We’ve noticed that families that work together and involve their children in a meaningful way usually have a positive moving day experience.”

If your kids are too young to be lifting boxes or disinterested in direct moving tasks, don’t worry, not all hope is lost. There are also more creative moving activities that may interest them.

Delivering Goodbye Gifts: Before moving day, work with your kids to make handmade goodbye cards or homemade treats for the neighbors. You can either go together to visit the neighbors on moving day or send your children to hand off these special deliveries. Not only is it a thoughtful idea that your neighbors will appreciate, but this simple act can also help your kids get some closure.

Snapping Memories: Hand your kid a camera and allow them to take photos throughout the day. Old cellphones or a disposable camera work well for this as you don’t have to worry about damage. Just ensure you set clear guidelines about safety and not getting in the way of the moving process before allowing your kids to start. These photos are great momentos to have down the road. Plus, creating a scrapbook with them or even just voting on a favorite to frame is always a great bonding experience. 

Read a Moving-Related Story

If you have smaller children, take a few minutes in the morning to snuggle with them and read them a book. If they are having trouble understanding what is about to happen with the move or having anxiety around the process, a moving-related children’s book can be a big help.

It can be tempting just to jump into the action on moving day right upon waking, but starting your journey with this small task sets a calmer tone for the day and can help both you and your child feel less anxious. However, this doesn’t just have to be a morning activity. At any point, you can take a break from the hustle and bustle to read a story and find a bit of serenity.

Embrace Family-Friendly Car Activities

If your move is a long-distance one, then make sure that you plan lots of car activities. In fact, consider looking at it as more of a road trip than a move. This means that you should consider car games that you can play as a family, such as the classic License Plate Game or Would You Rather. Or, try printing a Road Trip Scavenger Hunt filled with things like traffic signs, gas stations, and cars. A family-friendly audiobook is also a great way to pass the time and a few snacks will also go a long way in keeping everyone happy.

Explore the Neighborhood

Take a break from unpacking and check out what your new neighborhood has to offer. Not only will this help you discover some fun activities that you can look forward to doing as a family, but it can also help put your kid’s fears at ease by familiarizing them with their new environment.

Plant a Tree

If you have an outdoor area at your new home, then consider planting a tree seed or sapling. It can be fun to watch a tree grow with your family and it will make moving day extra memorable for your kids. Is there a foot of snow outside your door? Consider starting your tree is a small pot indoors and transplant it in the spring. While this bonding idea doesn’t have to be done precisely on moving day, if you do decide to tackle it that day, it will only take a few minutes of your time.

Unpack the Kid’s Bedrooms

Getting a new bedroom can be one of the most exciting parts of a move for a kid. Older children may not want help with the task of unpacking their belongings, but younger kids could always use a helping hand. Make sure they stay involved in the process by asking them the best place for certain items and accessories. Later down the line, you may also want to consider making an art piece on canvas together to further this bonding experience. In fact, it isn’t a bad idea to begin talking about painting ideas as you unpack.