Preparing Your Kids for a Big Move: Mama-Tested Tips from the Real Estate Rodeo

Preparing Your Kids for a Big Move: Mama-Tested Tips from the Real Estate Rodeo

Let’s be real—moving ain’t easy. Between packing boxes, keeping the house clean for showings, and trying to remember where you stashed the Sharpies (again), it’s a full-blown rodeo. And if you're moving with kids? Well, partner, that’s a whole other event in the arena.

As a mom of four and a Realtor who's helped more families move than I can count, I’ve seen firsthand how a big move can shake up little hearts. But I’ve also learned a few tried-and-true tricks to help smooth out the bumps in the trail. So saddle up—here’s how to get your kids emotionally and mentally prepped for a big move.

1. Talk About It Early (Even If You Don’t Have All the Answers)

Kids are smart. They can sense when change is coming, and they will fill in the blanks if you don’t. Be open with them from the start—even if you don’t have every detail figured out. Tell them why you’re moving (closer to family, new job, better schools, more land to run wild on—whatever the reason), and remind them what won’t change: your love, their favorite stuffed animal, and yes, bedtime.

2. Give Them a Job

Nothing calms chaos like a little purpose. Let your kids feel like part of the process. Littles can decorate moving boxes or pack up their toys (even if you have to redo it later), and older kids can research the new town or help pick out paint colors for their new rooms. Ownership builds confidence—and a bit of excitement, too.

3. Take a Peek at the New Place Together

If possible, let your kiddos see where they’re headed. Tour the new house, show them photos, or take a drive through the new neighborhood. Point out parks, ice cream spots, and other “kid cool” places. If it’s a long-distance move, hop online and take a virtual adventure together. Turning the unknown into the familiar makes all the difference.

4. Let Them Feel All the Feels

Moving can stir up big emotions in little bodies—especially if they’re leaving behind friends, schools, or the only home they’ve ever known. Let them be sad. Let them be mad. Let them cling to that dusty LEGO set like it’s gold. Just be there with them. Change is hard—even the good kind.

5. Plan a Goodbye That Feels Good

Don’t skip the closure. Host a small goodbye party, make a memory box of favorite things, or create a scrapbook of their old home. Even a simple drive around town to say “goodbye house, goodbye tree, goodbye pizza place” can help them process the change. Think of it as an emotional trail ride—one last lap before you head on to the next pasture.

6. Stick to Routines as Much as You Can

During the move, routines will go a little haywire—boxes for breakfast and all. But try to keep bedtime, mealtimes, and screen time as normal as possible. Predictability is a comfort blanket for kids, especially when the rest of life is being packed into cardboard.

7. Talk Up the Positives (Without Sugar-Coating)

You don’t need to pretend the move will be perfect. But you can highlight the good stuff: a bigger backyard, a new school with cool clubs, closer to Grandma’s cookies—you get the idea. Be honest, be hopeful, and let them know you’re in it together.

Final Thoughts from the Trail...

Mama, you’ve got this. Moving with kids is wild, but it’s not impossible. With a little patience, a whole lot of love, and maybe some bubble wrap therapy, your family can make this transition with confidence.

And hey—if you ever need help wrangling your next move (or just need a friendly voice on the other end of the line), this real estate wrangler is always here to help.

Melissa Elliott, Realtor®
📍North & East Texas
📞 Call or text me anytime—let’s make your next move your best one yet. 214-450-5473