Sat Jan 07 2023 11:43:26 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) - QikTruck Media
Moving with children can be extremely challenging, especially when it’s to a new home. In South Africa, it comes with a unique set of issues - from finding the right home for your family, to securing the necessities for your kids so that the transition won’t be too sudden. Navigating such complex matters requires knowledge and experience, and here are the essential dos and don’ts you should remember when planning a move with kids.
Organisation is key when it comes to moving house with kids. Find a system that works for you, be it time-tabling or making lists. The more organised you are, the less stressful the move will be. Start by organising important paperwork such as contracts, school transfer certificates and birth certificates. Paying attention to small details such as your address change and informing friends and family of the move ahead of time is also important.
If you have a family of four or more, it’s best to hire professional movers to help you. Doing it all on your own may be stressful, and often, it might not be the most economical way. Professional movers can assist with packing, loading, transporting and unloading your items, freeing up your time to focus on other important aspects of the move.
A move is a great opportunity to teach kids responsibility. Allocate tasks to each member of your family and set rewards for those who complete their tasks. For example, kids might be encouraged to keep their rooms neat while packing and to come up with toys they no longer need. Ideally, your family should pack items together, especially in a situation where the kids are young.
When moving with kids, it’s important to prepare for those inevitable emergencies and moments of exhaustion. Stocking your boxes with the basics such as snacks and liquids is recommended. Setting up a box of unique, easy-to-access items such as paracetamol tablets, bathing items and clothing, will also come in handy. This will make the move easier on your kids as they can find their favourite toys and items quickly regardless of the chaos.
When moving, it’s important to create a sacred, comfortable space for the kids filled with their favourite items. This will make them feel safer, calmer and more prepared to face the chaos and start settling in the new home. Also, allowing the kids to pick out specific items for the move will make them feel in control and provide them with a feeling of connection and security in the new house.
Packing and setting up a new home can be taxing. Remember to take regular breaks to rest your mind and body, and involve friends and family whenever possible. Taking care of yourself is essential during the entire process. Making sure you have enough sleep and eating healthy meals will give you some balance and create a great atmosphere of comfort in your family.
Capitalise on the advantages of modern technology by documenting your move with a camera or a notebook. You could also use an app such as Inventory Logic so you can keep track of the items in each box. This will make it easier to keep track of items and to categorise them during the move.
This isn’t a drag race, so remember to avoid rushing into things. Take your time and try to go step by step. Use trial and error and learn from your mistakes. It is helpful if each family member is involved in the process and you can involve help from friends and family for the load outs and packing.
Moving with children can be a stressful experience, but it can be greatly reduced by keeping the above tips in mind. Of course, having the right transport and driver to help your family move is a must. That is where QikTruck, South Africa’s leading truck and driver hire service, can help. With QikTruck, you get an expert driver who knows how to drive the truck professionally, plus coordination from the company’s staff. So, why not reduce the burden of moving and make your move with kids easier with QikTruck?