Moving with kids asks a lot of them. New surroundings, new rhythms, new everything. It’s easy to focus on logistics and forget how big it feels to them.

A note from today:
We’ve moved more than once since I first wrote this. I wouldn’t change much. If anything, I believe it even more now.

There are a few simple things that have helped us prepare our kids for a big move.

As a military family, we’ve walked through this more than once. I wouldn’t trade it. It’s brought us closer than I ever expected.

Tip #1: Start talking early about the move. For our upcoming move, I first brought up the idea with my children at the beginning of last school year. So as each holiday and season passed, we talked about it being the last one in our current home. I think that helped them adjust to the idea and not feel rushed as they processed the upcoming changes.

Tip #2: Read books about moving. One of my favorites is the classic Berenstain Bears' book, "Moving Day". I bought this for the kids when we moved four years ago and it's been helpful this time around too. It addresses a lot of the questions and worries that little children may think and ask when they leave one home and move into another.

Tip #3: Include your kids in the house hunting process. As we've looked for a new home, I've included my older two by showing them photos of the listings and asked them what things they'd like in a new house. It's sweet to hear the things they get really excited about - like having stairs!

Tip #4: Let your kids be sad when they need to be. No matter how much preparation you do, there most likely will be a few tears shed. It hurts my heart to see them cry as they think about saying goodbye to friends, but I think it's  important to let them feel that and be patient as it comes and goes.

Tip #5: Pack special treats and toys for the trip to the new location. As we drive the approximately 2000 miles to our new location, I've been gathering a bag of favorite and new things for the kids to enjoy along the way:

List updated in April 2026.

1) Books (as mentioned above)

2) Stuffed animals (Each of my have their special ones and always insist they cannot be packed.)

3) Stickers. No matter the age, they are always a winner. 

4) Small toys that are easily containable (buy a few to unwrap each day of the trip.)

5) Audio books (this is a great way to pass the time when the landscape outside is less-than-spectacular.)

This is what's worked for me in the past and how I'll be preparing again in just a little bit!

xoxo,
Annie