Moving is a big change for everyone, but for kids, it can feel like an overwhelming adventure filled with unknowns. The idea of leaving their home, school, and friends behind can bring on stress, tears, and a whole lot of questions. But with the right approach, moving with kids doesn’t have to be a struggle—it can even be (dare we say it?) fun! 

At Hampton Roads Moving & Storage, we know how important it is to keep little ones engaged and at ease during a move. So, we’ve put together some tried-and-true tips to help make the process smoother for your family—plus a FREE set of printable coloring pages to keep your kids entertained along the way! 

Talk About the Move Early 

Kids love to feel included, so instead of springing the move on them last minute, start the conversation early. Explain why you’re moving and what they can expect. Use a positive tone and highlight the fun parts—like a bigger backyard, a new school, or being closer to family. 

🚚Pro Tip: If you're moving locally in Hampton Roads, take a drive by the new house or new city and explore the neighborhood together. If that's not an option, hop online to check out pictures, virtual tours, and nearby parks or fun spots to build excitement! 

Make Packing a Game 

Let’s be honest—packing is no one’s favorite activity. But kids love games! Turn packing into a fun challenge by seeing who can fill a box the fastest or letting them decorate their own moving boxes with stickers and drawings. 

🚚Pro Tip: Give them their own "special box" where they can pack their most treasured belongings and keep it with them during the move. 

Keep Their Routine as Normal as Possible 

Amidst the chaos of moving, try to stick to their usual schedule for meals, naps, and bedtime. Familiar routines help kids feel safe and secure, even when everything else is changing. 

🚚Pro Tip: Set up their new bedroom first so they have a cozy, familiar space right away. 

Plan a Moving Day Adventure 

Instead of focusing on the stress, make moving day an adventure! Let kids wear superhero capes, call them “official moving assistants,” or create a fun scavenger hunt for spotting moving trucks, boxes, and tape rolls. 

🚚Pro Tip: Pack a “moving day survival kit” with snacks, small toys, and their favorite books to keep them happy during the transition. 

Give Them Something Fun to Do 

Kids get bored fast, and a bored child on moving day = disaster. Keep them entertained with a special moving activity, like coloring pages, puzzles, or a fun playlist of their favorite songs. 

🚚Pro Tip: We’ve got you covered! Download our FREE moving-themed coloring pages to keep your little ones busy and smiling! 

👉 Download Your Free Coloring Pages Here! 

Explore the New Home Together 

Once you arrive, take a tour of the house together and let them pick out their new bedroom. If possible, visit local parks, ice cream shops, or kid-friendly attractions to help them feel excited about their new surroundings. 

🚚Pro Tip: Create a “New House Bucket List” where they can write down fun things they want to do in their new home or new area.   

Be Patient with Their Emotions 

Moving can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, sadness, nervousness, and curiosity. Let them express their feelings and reassure them that it’s okay to miss their old home while also looking forward to new adventures. 

🚚Pro Tip: Read a fun book about moving together, like The Berenstain Bears' Moving Day or A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle. 

Moving with Older Kids & Teens: Keeping Them Engaged 

Moving can be especially tough for preteens and teenagers. They’ve likely built strong friendships, routines, and a sense of independence in their current home, making the transition feel even more overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can help them see the move as a fresh start rather than a disruption. 

Involve Them in the Process – Give them a voice in decisions like decorating their new room, choosing a color scheme, or even picking a local spot for a family outing after the move. The more ownership they feel, the more positive they’ll be about the transition. 

Address Their Social Life – One of the biggest concerns for older kids is leaving behind friends. Encourage them to exchange contact info, plan visits, and stay connected through social media. If possible, help them find clubs, sports teams, or activities in the new area to make meeting new friends easier. 

Let Them Help on Moving Day – Believe it or not, teens like to feel useful, so assign them important moving day tasks, like organizing their own belongings, setting up Wi-Fi, or being in charge of a moving-day playlist. Giving them responsibility helps them feel more in control. 

Give Them Time to Adjust – Unlike younger kids who might quickly embrace a new adventure, teens may need more time to warm up to the idea. Be patient, acknowledge their feelings, and remind them that change, while difficult, can also bring new opportunities. 

Moving with kids can be a challenge, but with a little creativity and planning, it can also be an exciting new adventure for the whole family. By keeping them involved, making packing fun, and ensuring they have familiar comforts, you’ll set them up for a smooth transition. 

And don’t forget—when things get hectic, grab your free coloring pages to keep the little ones entertained while you tackle the move. 

Happy moving!