Moving countries can be a stressful experience for both parents and children. With the added difficulty of transitioning your kids to a new culture, it can be hard to know where to start.
If you’re planning on moving with children to Australia, this guide is for you! I have been in your shoes, moved with children, I get it! We will cover what tasks your children can help you with before the move, what to pack for them, how to deal with jet lag and parenting tips when moving.
Tasks for children when packing
Depending on the child’s age and ability, there are several tasks that your children can help you with in preparing for the move. Younger children can get involved by packing their toys and personal items into boxes or suitcases. This is a great way to make them feel more involved in the process and help them understand how their precious teddy bears will get to the new home..
Decorating packing boxes can be such a fun and creative way to get children involved in the moving process. It’s a great way to keep them occupied while you try to handle that linen cupboard!
As you tidy and sort, no doubt you will come across decorations such as stickers, markers, paints, or even magazine cutouts. Children love to know that their teddy bear will be ok in the box. Often, this decorating can relieve anxiety. I have been known to put “glow in the dark” stickers on the inside of a box so Teddy is not scared.
Older kids can be a great help when packing up your home, and you’d be surprised what kind of assistance they can provide. Have them wrap delicate items, take apart furniture and create floor plans for each room that show where and what furniture you are packing – you will be surprised at what you forget you have. They’ll also love using rulers or tape measures to ensure their beloved furniture pieces fit perfectly into their new space!
What to pack on a long-haul flight
When moving with children, it’s essential to bring along items that will make the journey relaxed and cozy. Besides the obvious, nappies, water and a pacifier here are a few extra tips:
- Books. If you are carrying pens or pencils, they should be in a box.
- Toys. I suggest packing magnetic toys, felt packs – farms, dolls, etc or post-it notes that easily fit a tray table and don’t have any chances of falling off.
- Blankets or pillows for extra comfort.
- Headphones in case they want to listen to music or watch movies on their own devices
- Anything else that can prove helpful during take-offs and other interludes between airports.
Ordering a kid’s meal on a flight can benefit both parents and their children. Not only does it provide a healthy, balanced and portioned meal that is tailored specifically to the needs of children, but it also ensures that parents don’t have to worry about finding food options on board or at airport restaurants. Additionally, they are usually served first.
Why air freight is a good idea
When packing for a big move, it’s important not to overwhelm yourself – especially when you have small children. Air freight is an effective way to transport your essential items quickly and securely upon arrival. Let’s remember how tricky it is moving with children through a busy airport, let’s try to avoid all those suitcases and wobbly trolleys too.
Although air freight might be costly, it can provide comfort and familiarity for young kids with their favorite toys as well as bed linens included in the package.
Your airfreight should include all those necessary things that are too bulky or cumbersome to bring on the plane but will make life much more comfortable after touching down!
Jet lag and children
Jet lag is an unavoidable part of international travel – but it doesn’t have to be too disruptive! You can minimise its effects by adjusting meal times and sleeping patterns as soon as possible after arriving.
I am not a huge fan of trying to get children to adjust to a timezone prior to arrival – I mean, who needs that stress? When you arrive, despite being tired, eat at the local times, their hungry lunchtime tummy is what is waking them at 2 AM! That goes for you too.
Keeping your kids active during the day by playing outdoor games or going sightseeing will also help them adjust more quickly.
Parenting tips when moving with children
Moving countries is an exciting adventure, but it can also be overwhelming for both parents and kids alike! Try not to put too much pressure on yourself or your family – take time each day for some fun activities, like visiting local parks or museums together.
Ensuring everyone gets enough sleep is also key so don’t forget about those all-important bedtime routines!
Finally, remember that it’s totally normal for kids (and adults!) to miss home sometimes – take advantage of technology such as Skype or Facetime so they can stay connected with friends back home.
How Personnel Relocations can help
Moving with children internationally can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! By incorporating your kids into pre-move preparations, like packing up their own belongings and getting used to local meal times ahead of time, they’ll transition more easily into life in Australia once you arrive there.
Don’t forget about taking breaks throughout the day, too – playtime is essential when dealing with jet lag! Follow these tips for a smooth transition overseas for both you and your family members alike!
To ensure that your family feels secure during the relocation process, Personnel Relocations highly recommends securing a home before arrival in Australia.
As experts who have been through this stressful experience ourselves, we understand its magnitude and are here to help you make the right start with peace of mind.
Having an address to call home once you arrive will set up for a smoother transition and provide much-needed comfort – now wouldn’t that be nice?
