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Relocating to a new house can be rather stressful. From the labor it requires to the uncertainty that relocation brings, everything about moving can be disorienting. As a single parent, moving with kids and pets is particularly more strenuous. But with proper planning and foresight, it is not an impossible task.
Tips and tricks for moving with kids and pets
So you have spotted the best house and done all the requisite paperwork and transactions, and it’s now time to move. Here are some tips that will be of great help if you are moving with your kids and pets.
Hire movers
Although some people may prefer to hire a truck and move by themselves, it is better to get yourself a few extra pairs of hands. It would help if you considered hiring professional moving experts from UMoveFree. With their help, you do not have to worry about doing all the heavy lifting by yourself. You can cater to the needs of both your pets and kids as the movers do their job.
Timing is key
Before planning your move, you may want to consider the perfect timing for both your kids and your furry little pet. It may not be an excellent idea for your kids to move in the middle of an ongoing semester. Transferring schools in the middle of a semester makes it much harder for children to adapt to their change in environment. You may also want to consider the different climatic conditions in your new home destination. If you are shifting from Florida (which is often hot) to Alaska (the coldest state in America), you may want to move when the weather is slightly warmer. This will help your child adapt much faster to the new environment.
Plan in advance
Ensure that all the pans you need for your relocation are in place well ahead of time. This will help you be intentional with all your steps. Set aside all the funds you need, make packing arrangements, book tickets if you need to. Do not leave anything to chance. You would rather be over-prepared than underprepared.
Pack systematically
Packing is an essential part of moving. It is while packing that you may choose to declutter your possessions and retain only what you need. Packing may prove difficult if you have a lot of things to carry. Having to label your boxes and arrange them in proper order is no mean feat. Luckily, there are new technologies that allow you to place and scan codes on your packing boxes. These codes will then help you keep track of the boxes and their contents. That way, you minimize the risk of forgetting something.
Secure your animals
Traveling with your pet for a long-distance may make them feel uneasy. As a result, they may even jump out of the car windows. To avoid this, ensure you find a way to secure your pet. For smaller pets, ensure you get carriers. Do not let any pet move around the car since this can pose a safety risk.
Start with their rooms
When you get to your new home, the first thing you will want to do is to arrange your children’s room and your pet’s spot. Doing this will ensure that they get a feel of home from the very beginning. Make sure you consider their preferences even as you set up the rooms. If they prefer a replica of their previous room, try your best to achieve that exact look.
Maintain routines
Children find comfort in routines. Relocation in itself is such a significant change. The last thing they need is more change. Try as much as possible to stick to your previous routines. If you previously had certain days for family time and picnics, do not ditch them as soon as you get to the new place. If you have a habit of taking your pet for a walk, then be sure to continue with it in your new area park.
Encourage them to settle in
Sometimes all it takes to help your child settle is a few words of encouragement and a little shove from you. Encourage your child to make new friends both at school and home. Talk about all the benefits and perks of their new home and take them to their places of interest. This will accelerate their settling in process.
Relax, you’ve got this
Moving by yourself may make you feel helpless. Handling the kids, pets, and logistics may weigh you down. Do not let it smother you. Relax, take a breath and use these tips listed above. By doing so, you will have nothing to worry about. Remember, moving does not always have to be a bad thing. In most cases, it exposes you to better places, newer prospects, and a whole load of happiness!
