Surviving a Move with Kids and Pets: Tips and Tricks

Moving homes can be a challenging process for every family member, including kids and pets. It disrupts routines, introduces uncertainty, and can cause stress for everyone involved. However, with careful planning and preparation, surviving a move with your little ones, both human and furry, can be made significantly smoother.

Here are some essential tips and tricks for making the transition as stress-free as possible, especially when you are moving internationally, including removals to Italy, or anywhere else.

Before the Move

• Involve the Kids in Planning

Involvement is key to helping children feel a part of the process. Let them help with packing, particularly their own belongings, and talk to them about their new room and the positives of the move.

• Maintain Routine

As much as possible, keep your children's and pets' routines unchanged. Consistent meal times, walks, bedtimes, and play activities can provide comfort during this disruptive time.

• Familiarize Pets with Transport Containers

If you'll be using crates or carriers, get your pets used to them in advance. Leave them open in your current home with a comfy bed inside, so your pet can enter and exit at will, making it a familiar and safe space by moving day.

• Plan for Moving Day

On the day of the move, consider arranging for kids and pets to stay with family or friends. This reduces stress for them and allows you to focus on the logistics of the move.

Packing and Preparation

• Pack a Day Bag

Prepare a bag for each child and pet that includes all the essentials they'll need for the first few days, such as clothes, favourite toys, food, medications, and comforting items.

• Keep Familiar Items Out

Until the last possible moment, keep your child's favourite toys, blankets, and your pets' favourite beds and toys out and accessible to provide comfort and a sense of normalcy.

• Safety First

Ensure that potentially harmful items such as cleaning supplies, sharp objects, and small pieces that pets or kids could choke on are packed safely out of reach.

During the Move

• Maintain Calmness

Kids and pets can easily pick up on stress and anxiety, so try to remain calm and reassuring throughout the moving process.

• Regular Breaks

If you're making a long journey, plan for regular stops to allow pets to stretch their legs and relieve themselves, and to give kids a break from the car.

• Keep Items Handy

Make sure your day bags are easily accessible during the move, so you're prepared for any situation, whether it's a snack attack or a lost pacifier.

Settling In

• Set Up Familiar Spaces

One of the first priorities when arriving at your new home should be setting up areas for your kids and pets that resemble their old spaces, using familiar items like bedding, toys, and decorations.

• Stick to Routines

Try to return to your usual routines as quickly as possible to lend a sense of normalcy to your new environment.

• Explore Together

Take the time to explore your new neighbourhood with your kids and pets. Finding exciting places to see and play can make the new environment feel like home more quickly.

Emotional Support

Throughout the moving process, it is crucial to provide emotional support:

• For Kids: Encourage open conversations about their feelings regarding the move, reassure them about their concerns, and emphasize the positives about their new environment.

• For Pets: Provide extra affection and attention to help them adjust. Be patient as they learn about their new surroundings.

Conclusion:

Moving with kids and pets requires additional preparation and patience, but it's an opportunity for growth and family bonding. By prioritizing their needs and involving them in the moving process, whether it is removals to Denmark, or somewhere else, you can help make the transition smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved. Remember, the goal is not just to move to a new location, but to arrive as a happy, healthy family ready to start this next chapter together.