How to Get Your Kids Excited About Moving—Even If They Don’t Want To 🏡👧👦

Moving is a big deal for kids. It’s exciting, but it can also be overwhelming, emotional, and even a little scary. Leaving behind friends, familiar spaces, and routines can feel like a huge loss, which is why kids often resist the idea of moving.

But what if you could turn that resistance into excitement? Here’s how to get your kids on board with the move—without the meltdowns.

Step 1: Talk About the Move Early & Often 🗣️

Kids thrive on routine, so the more time they have to process the change, the better.

✅ Be honest, but keep it positive. Let them know when and why you’re moving.
✅ Focus on the fun aspects. New parks, new friends, a bigger backyard—whatever excites them most.
✅ Give them space to express their feelings. Let them share their fears and worries, and reassure them that it’s okay to feel that way.

💡 Pro Tip: Frame the move as an adventure rather than something to fear. Highlight all the cool things about the new home and neighborhood!

Step 2: Let Them Be Part of the Process 🏠

Kids are more likely to embrace the move if they feel involved in the decision-making.

✔ Take them house hunting. Even if they don’t have the final say, letting them tour homes with you gives them a sense of control.
✔ Let them help pack. Give them a “special moving box” for their favorite things.
✔ Ask for their input on their new room. What colors? What décor? Let them choose!

💡 Pro Tip: Make it a game—who can pack their toys the fastest? Who can find the “most exciting” thing about the new house?

Step 3: Plan a Goodbye & a Fresh Start 👋

Saying goodbye is tough, especially for kids who have close friends in the neighborhood.

✅ Host a “See You Later” Party. Let them invite friends over for a playdate or sleepover before moving day.
✅ Create a Memory Book. Have them collect pictures, notes, and little keepsakes from their old home and friends.
✅ Schedule Virtual Playdates. If they’re moving far away, set up times for FaceTime or Zoom calls with friends.

💡 Pro Tip: Remind them that leaving doesn’t mean losing—it just means adding new friends and experiences to their life.

Step 4: Make Moving Day Fun 🎉

Let’s be real—moving day is exhausting. But for kids, it can feel even more chaotic.

✔ Pack a special moving day bag with their favorite snacks, toys, and activities.
✔ Give them small tasks to do—like handing out water bottles or carrying light boxes.
✔ Let them “say goodbye” to each room—it helps with closure.

💡 Pro Tip: At elevated & co. realty, we have a Kids’ House Hunting Scavenger Hunt to keep them engaged and excited. Ask us for a copy before your next showing!

Step 5: Settle In With New Traditions 🏡

Once you’re in your new home, focus on creating comfort and familiarity.

✅ Unpack their room first. Having their favorite things around will help them adjust faster.
✅ Explore the neighborhood together. Find the best parks, ice cream shops, and fun local spots.
✅ Keep familiar routines. Bedtime stories, Friday pizza nights—consistency helps kids feel safe.

💡 Pro Tip: Make a family bucket list of things to do in your new city or neighborhood!

Final Thoughts: Moving Can Be Exciting for Kids, Too!

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful or scary for kids. With a little planning, involvement, and creativity, you can turn the transition into an exciting adventure!

📩 Thinking about moving? Let’s make the transition smooth and fun for the whole family!

#YourMoveElevated 🚀