Packing a child's room is not the same as packing any other room. It is full of toys, books, and comfort items that mean a lot to your little one. With a little planning, you can pack it well and even make the move feel like fun for your child.
Involve Your Child in the Process
Children feel more settled when they are part of the change. Let your child help in small ways.
Ask them to pick which toys go in which box. Give them a marker to draw on the boxes. When children feel involved, they worry less about the move.
Sort Toys Before You Pack
A move is a good time to sort through toys. Many children have toys they no longer play with.
Sit with your child and make three simple piles:
- Toys to keep
- Toys to give away
- Toys that are broken and can be thrown out
Let your child decide as much as possible. This teaches them a useful habit and reduces the number of boxes you need to pack.
Keep a Favourite Item Handy
Every child has one special toy or blanket they cannot sleep without. Do not pack this item in the moving truck.
Keep it in a separate bag that travels with your child. On the first night in the new home, this familiar item will help them feel safe and settle down faster.
Pack School Supplies Separately
If your child is in school, keep their books and study materials in one clearly marked box.
Label it "SCHOOL â OPEN FIRST." This way, your child can get back to their studies quickly, even before the whole house is unpacked.
Wrap Toys with Care
Some toys are delicate. Others have small parts that can get lost.
Here are a few simple tips:
- Wrap fragile toys in bubble wrap or soft cloth
- Keep small parts in zip-lock bags so they do not get lost
- Pack soft toys together in a large bag or box
- Keep battery-operated toys in one box and remove the batteries first
Make It Feel Like an Adventure
Children take their cues from you. If you stay calm and positive, they will feel the same way.
Talk about the new home in an exciting way. Describe their new room. Tell them about the fun things nearby, like a park or a play area.
You can even turn packing into a game. See who can pack their books the fastest, or let your child decorate their moving boxes with drawings.
Set Up the Kids' Room First
When you reach the new home, set up your child's room before the other rooms.
A familiar bed, favourite toys, and their own things around them will help your child feel at home right away. A settled child makes the whole move easier for the family.
A Quick Checklist for Packing a Kids' Room
- Sort toys into keep, give away, and throw out
- Let your child help with simple tasks
- Keep one favourite item out of the moving truck
- Pack school supplies in an "OPEN FIRST" box
- Wrap fragile toys and bag small parts
- Set up the child's room first at the new home
National Shifting knows that a family move is about more than just boxes. We handle your family's belongings with care so you can focus on helping your children settle in. Contact us today to plan a smooth and stress-free family move.
