Moving with Kids in Brisbane: The Ultimate Guide to a Tear-Free Move
Moving house is a huge adventure for adults, but for children, it can feel like their whole world is being packed into a box. The disruption of routine, the loss of familiar surroundings, and the general chaos can be overwhelming. As family movers in Brisbane, the SwiftMove team has helped countless families navigate this transition. Here’s our battle-tested guide to managing the emotions and logistics of moving with kids, turning a potential stressor into an exciting new chapter.
Part 1: The Emotional Prep - Talking About the Move
1. Start the Conversation Early (And Keep It Positive)
Use Age-Appropriate Language: Explain the move in a way they can understand. Frame it as an "adventure" to a "new home" rather than "leaving an old one."
Make it Visual: Show them pictures and videos of the new house and their new room. Use Google Maps to "walk" around the new neighbourhood and find the nearest park, library, or ice cream shop. 🗺️
Involve Them: Ask for their opinion on how to arrange their new room or what colour to paint it. This gives them a sense of control and ownership.
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings
It's okay to be sad about leaving their old home and friends. Validate their emotions by saying, "It's okay to feel sad. I feel a little sad too, and I'm also excited about our new adventure."
Plan a proper "goodbye" to their old home. Do a final walkthrough and share favourite memories from each room.
Part 2: The Practical Prep - Involving Them in the Process
3. The "Special Box" or Backpack
This is your most powerful tool. Give each child their own box or backpack to pack. This is their personal treasure chest that stays with YOU, not on the truck. It should include:
Favourite toys, stuffed animals, and comfort items. 🧸
A few books and activities for the moving day (colouring books, tablets, snacks).
Pyjamas and a change of clothes for the first night.
Their cup and plate for meals.
4. Stick to the Routine (As Much As Possible)
Amid the chaos, try to keep meal times, nap times, and bedtime rituals consistent. This provides a crucial anchor of familiarity for young children.
If possible, unpack the kids' bedrooms first in the new house. Seeing their familiar bed and toys immediately makes the new space feel like "theirs" and provides a safe haven.
5. Plan for Moving Day Itself
Arrange Childcare: The absolute best option is to have young children looked after by a friend, family member, or sitter for the day. Moving day is busy and potentially dangerous with furniture being moved and doors left open.
If They Must Be Present: Designate one parent or helper as the dedicated "child wrangler" whose sole job is to keep the kids safe, entertained, and out of the way of the movers.
Part 3: Settling Into Your New Brisbane Home
6. Explore Your New Neighbourhood Together
Make it a mission to find the best playground in Brisbane. Visit the local library for storytime. Find a new favourite café for a special treat. This builds positive new associations.
Get involved in local community groups or sports teams to help them make new friends quickly.
7. Be Patient
Regression (bedwetting, clinginess, tantrums) is a normal reaction to big change. Offer extra comfort and reassurance. It may take a few weeks for them to fully adjust.
Why Choosing the Right Mover Matters for Families
The moving crew you choose sets the tone for the entire day. At SwiftMove, we understand that we're not just moving boxes; we're moving a family's life.
We Are Patient and Respectful: Our teams are known for being calm, polite, and conscious of the family environment. We are never loud or rushed around your children.
We Are Efficient: We work quickly and professionally to minimise the disruption to your family's day.
We Provide Peace of Mind: Knowing your belongings are in careful, trustworthy hands allows you to focus on what's most important — your kids.
We are here to make this transition as smooth and positive as possible for every member of your family.
👉 Planning a Family Move in Brisbane?
Let us handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on your little ones. We promise a calm, careful, and child-friendly moving experience.
📞 Call the family-friendly movers at SwiftMove today: 0494 083 737
