Moving with a child; expert tips on how to get your little one to sleep peacefully.
Similar to traveling with children, moving houses when you have a young child can be tricky and will most likely impact their sleep.
We know it can be scary, but before panicking, remember young children are highly adaptable and face changes more easily than adults. Research has shown that because children’s brains are developing rapidly, they are able to bounce back quicker than an adult, coping at a quicker rate. With a structured plan and lots of love, you can help your little one stay on schedule while you move.
Here are some tips you can benefit from if you are going to move houses with young kids:
1. Talk with your child about the transition.
The adjustment period can be a vulnerable time if your child is able to understand what is going to happen. Talk about the move and explain what the next steps are. Some children may feel relief as plans are finalized, and, once settled in the new place, they might adjust much faster because this subject was already part of the family dynamics.
Conversing with your child and letting them share their feelings can help build trust and ease the transition.
2. Get your child involved and promote engagement.
It is so important to prioritize your little one’s voice. A great way to do that is to include them in the decision-making processes, such as choosing their new room’s color, a yard toy for the new house, or even what will be the first meal you cook together in the new place.
Depending on their age, children may be confused and even scared during this transition time. That’s why promoting engagement can be very helpful.
If your child is used to a certain schedule or person (a friend, neighbor, or constant presence of a relative), you can have these people spend time in your new place or invite them for a housewarming party where they can also engage with your child.
3. Stay positive and dedicate time for bonding.
As stressful as it can be, it is important that you remain positive and help your children make positive associations with the new house. Reassure them that this is a new happy place, and you will collect great moments together.
Child-led playing is typically something we like to do and can help combat not only separation anxiety but also the stress of significant life transitions. Make sure to find time for lots of hugs and snuggles.
4. Replicate the sleep environment and bedtime routine.
This is especially important when dealing with sensitive sleepers. We want to make our little one’s new sleep space a familiar environment. You can do that by assembling with them the same bed and furniture they love and are familiar with.
Bring something that makes the environment feel more like “home” (such as a special blanket, pillows, and stuffed animals) and stick to their typical bedtime routine.
We all know that consistency is the key to an organized life. Along with trying to replicate their sleep space, maintaining the usual bedtime routine and naptime routine is just as essential.
5. Use a visual bedtime routine.
Young children think in pictures. The more visual your daily routines are, the more likely children will meet your expectations. A visual bedtime routine is an excellent tool if your child is struggling with the transition to a new house.
You can take pictures of the various stages of your evening routine (in the new place) and make these into a small photo book. Use this book as one of the bedtime stories you read together. It can be helpful to create visual routines for times that typically make your day difficult and for new or anxiety-provoking situations like moving houses.
6. Allow your children to express their feelings.
It’s normal for children to feel angry or frustrated. Give them the time and space they need to get comfortable with the situation and the new house. It’s important to let your children know that it’s okay to have their feelings, including missing their previous home, friends, or anything that connects them to that former space. You also want to be as patient as possible with yourself and your little ones.
Have you experienced moving houses with a young child and want to share what worked best for you? Let us know on Facebook or Instagram!
Related Articles:
Family Fun and Screen Free Bedtime Tips