There are so many different elements to consider when you are moving, and this is especially true when you are moving with small children or infants. With so many moving parts, you have to be proactive in making sure your biggest priority, your family, is taken care of. This can be difficult because of the chaos that moving can cause, so in order to minimize your stress, we have compiled some tips on how to make moving with an infant as easy as possible.
Make an “Essentials” Bag
While packing, it is really easy to pack everything in sight, however this often causes people to pack away things that they will need before unpacking in their new place. Before you start packing, make a list of everything you need for your infant (and for yourself) and put those aside. Items might include diapers, wipes, snacks, water, any necessary medication, a first aid kit, changes of clothes, sun screen, an extra blanket, special or comforting toys, a pack-n-play, and anything else you don’t want to be stuck frantically looking for through packed boxes. When it comes time to actually move, make sure these items are either in your personal vehicle or last to go on the truck so that they are easily accessible if needed.
Find a New Pediatrician
The worst case scenario when moving, or any other time, is your child falling ill. If you are moving far away, having a sick kid can be even more stressful by the fact that you aren’t close to a familiar doctor or pediatrician. One of the first things on your to-do list when you decide to move is to start your search for a new family doctor just in case you or your child comes down with something on route to your new home. Ask your current doctor for a referral, ask friends for recommendations, and check online reviews. Another item that you will want to keep in your “essentials” bag is updated medical records in the event you suddenly need to get your kid to a doctor.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Traveling with your family can be the cause for a long trip, but traveling with an infant can be even more unpredictable. The last thing you want is to feel rushed on the road, especially if you are dealing with a large moving truck. Give yourself an ample amount of time to allow for those extra stops small kids inevitably need for diaper changes, leg stretching, and car seat fatigue.
Plan for Your Arrival
A lot of change can be stressful for anyone, but this is especially true for small children. While you might be focusing on just getting your family and all of your belongings to your new home, making a plan for your arrival to ease the transition could help calm your children’s nerves. Planning for your first meal either in the home or at a favorite restaurant could make a huge difference. A stressed out child can make for an overly chaotic experience, so anything you can do to make an easier transition and create a calm, familiar environment can make an easier process for everyone involved!
