Moving with Kids: A Stress-Free Guide for Families in Chicagoland

1. Involve Your Kids Early in the Process

Children can feel anxious about change, especially when it involves leaving behind familiar surroundings. Involve them early to ease their fears and build excitement.

• Talk About the Move: Explain why you’re moving and highlight the positive aspects of your new home or neighborhood.
• Visit the New Area: If possible, take a trip to your new home or community. Show them nearby parks, schools, or other kid-friendly attractions.

 

2. Create a Moving Countdown Calendar

Visual aids can help younger children understand timelines. Create a fun countdown calendar with stickers or drawings to mark important milestones, such as packing their room or the moving day itself.

 

3. Sort and Declutter Together

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter. Involve your kids in deciding what to keep, donate, or discard.

• Toy Purge: Encourage them to donate toys they no longer use to local charities in Naperville or Chicago.
• Memory Box: Let them create a special box to store their favorite items for the journey.

 

4. Pack a “First Day” Box for Each Child

A “First Day” box ensures your kids have immediate access to their essentials upon arrival. Include:

• A favorite toy or stuffed animal
• Pajamas and a change of clothes
• Snacks and water
• Books or tablets for entertainment

 

5. Plan a Kid-Friendly Moving Day

Moving day can be chaotic, so keep your kids entertained and safe.

• Hire Help: Consider professional movers to handle the heavy lifting while you focus on your children.
• Childcare Options: If possible, arrange for a babysitter or family member to watch your kids during the busiest hours.

 

6. Make the New Home Exciting

Turn the transition into an adventure by making the new home appealing.

• Decorate Together: Let your kids pick colors or themes for their new room.
• Explore the Neighborhood: Take them to local parks, ice cream shops, or libraries in Oak Brook or Hinsdale to familiarize them with their new surroundings.

 

7. Stick to Familiar Routines

Maintaining routines can help your kids adjust faster.

• Bedtime: Stick to their regular bedtime schedule, even on moving day.
• Meals: Try to keep mealtime routines and serve familiar foods during the transition.

 

8. Encourage Open Communication

Kids may have mixed feelings about the move. Create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their emotions.

• Storytime: Read books about moving to help them relate and process their feelings.
• Journaling: Older kids might benefit from writing about their experiences.

 

9. Get Them Excited About Their New School

If your kids are changing schools, prepare them in advance.

• Meet the Teachers: Schedule a visit to their new school and introduce them to teachers and classmates.
• Join Activities: Encourage them to join sports teams or clubs to make friends quickly.

 

10. Celebrate the Move as a Family

Once you’ve settled in, celebrate your new beginning!

• Host a Family Dinner: Order takeout from a local restaurant in Chicago or Hinsdale to enjoy together.
• Explore the Area: Plan a fun day out to discover your new community’s attractions.