Moving with kids and pets don’t have to be stressful. Here’s what you can do to make it a hassle-free event.
Before the Move
- Health check!
If you’re moving out of town, bring your kids and pets in for medical check-ups. Ask your doctor and vet to refer you to practitioners in Somerset County, and get prescriptions if necessary. Make sure that their vaccination records are up-to-date.If any of your kids suffer from asthma, allergies, or other chronic ailments, make sure to stock up on meds.
- Travel short distances before moving
Practice makes perfect, so if you’re traveling a long distance for the move, try taking your kids and pets on short trips in the weeks leading up to it. This will help them get used to being on the road.Likewise, make sure that your pets are crate-trained. Ideally, they should be kept in secure but well-ventilated travel crates during the trip. Crate training will help them feel more relaxed and comfortable during the car ride.
- Get the kids excited about your new home
Give the kids something to look forward to by showing them photos of your new home. If possible, take them to visit your new neighborhood before the move and turn their attention to things that might catch their interest.Show them their new school or a park where they can play. This will make them more cooperative, as well as offset any sadness they might feel about having to say goodbye to their friends.
- Get the kids involved
You can encourage your kids to pack their own stuff, particularly their favorite toys. They’ll be more relaxed if they know where everything is, and if they’re sure that their favorite items won’t get left behind. Even play-acting, or getting them to pretend that they’re packing their stuff into a box, will help them get used to the idea of moving away. - Ask for help
Moving is tedious and time-consuming, but you don’t have to do everything by yourself. Ask friends and family to give you a helping hand. They can assist with packing or look after the kids on the day of the move. You can also get professional movers to do the packing for you.
During the Move
- Hire a babysitter
If friends and family can’t help out, you can leave the kids with a babysitter on the day of the move. Have them do a fun activity outside the home while the movers come in to pack and haul your furniture. This will keep them out of harm’s way and prevent them from getting distressed at the sight of strangers taking your things away. - Keep pets in a separate room
While the kids are away, you can keep your pets in a safe and secure room while the movers do their job. This will keep them from escaping or getting stressed out on the day of the move. Make sure they have enough food and water and check on them from time to time.Once you arrive at your new home, unpack your kids’ and pets’ favorite items first. This can give them comfort in their new surroundings. Try to re-establish a routine as soon as possible.
With these tips in mind, you’ll get settled in no time.
For more information about Bridgewater and Basking Ridge, NJ real estate, get in touch with me today at info@pagnottahomes.com or 908.436.7947.