4 Tips for Making Moving Go Smoothly With a Teenager
Moving house is one of the most stressful life events you'll experience, with Real Homes explaining that it can be more stressful than divorce or a new baby. This can be even more difficult when you're moving with a teenager, especially if they're not enthusiastic about the move.
Luckily, you can do a few things to help moving go more smoothly, from preparing your teenager for the move to packing a handy first night bag.
1. Make sure they're emotionally prepared for the move
Emotions tend to run high on moving day and will be even more stressful if your teenager hasn't yet come to terms with the move. As soon as you know about moving, sit them down and have an honest discussion about your plans. They might react with anger and sadness, so make sure they have time to process their feelings.
You can do many things to get your teenager used to the idea of moving, from getting them excited about your new area (maybe it's closer to the beach, or their new school is great) to allowing them to say a proper goodbye to friends, perhaps with a party or sleepover. Whatever the case, moving day will go much more smoothly if they're excited rather than upset.
2. Let them pack their own stuff
Teenagers can be pretty protective about their stuff, so let them pack up their own bedroom. Provide them with lots of boxes and bubble wrap, and give them some general pointers on how to efficiently pack and label boxes. Make sure that the boxes from their room are clearly labelled as such so they can set up their new space as soon as possible.
Packing up their room will help your teenager feel like an active participant in the move, and they'll likely enjoy feeling useful.
3. Give them a job to do on the big day
Giving your teenager a job to do on the big day can help them feel useful and valued, as well as keep their mind of any move-related emotions. You know your teenager best, so choose something that fits their personality, whether looking after a younger child, making sure the dog is okay or being in charge of the drinks and snacks for the journey. This has an added benefit for you, as you'll have one less thing to think about on the day.
You can also choose something for them to do when you arrive, such as helping to organise your first meal or unpacking their clothes.
4. Pack a first night bag with essentials
Arriving at your new home can be overwhelming, and you might not want to unpack straightaway. By encouraging your teenager to pack a first night bag, you can ensure they have all their must-have items as soon as you arrive.
It could include special drinks and snacks, chargers for their electronic devices, changes of clothes, favourite toiletries and things to do, such as books and games. This ensures that in an unfamiliar home, they can surround themselves with familiar things, proving comfort and security.
Make a first night bag for the whole family, with any medication and toiletries you all use, food and drinks for your first meal, bath and hand towels, bed linen, toilet paper and a small first aid kit.
Whether you move a long or short distance, the tips above will help your moving day to go more smoothly by helping your teenager feel happy and empowered during the move.
As your movers, we'll also be able to help your day go smoothly with our speedy and efficient residential removal services. If you want a mover who'll take the stress out of moving day, get in touch today.
