5 Helpful Tips for Moving with Kids Stress-Free

Moving is a big transition—and when you’re doing it with children in tow, things can get especially emotional, hectic, and unpredictable. Whether you’re relocating across Walworth County or coming into the Lake Geneva area from out of state, the process of packing up your life while keeping your kids calm and on track can feel overwhelming.

But with the right approach, moving with kids doesn’t have to be a nightmare. These moving with kids tips will help you reduce stress, involve your kids in the process, and settle into your new home with fewer tears (and tantrums).

1. Talk About the Move Early and Often

One of the most important things you can do is prepare your kids emotionally for what’s ahead. Children—especially young ones—thrive on routine and predictability. Sudden changes, like leaving their familiar home, school, or friends, can create anxiety.

Start by:

Explaining why you’re moving (in simple terms they understand)
Answering questions honestly, even if the answers aren’t perfect
Using positive language—focus on the excitement of a new adventure

If you’re moving to a new town in Walworth County—like from Delavan to Lake Geneva—show your kids photos or visit the new area together if possible. Highlight nearby parks, fun things to do, and even potential new schools to create familiarity.

2. Involve Kids in the Process

When children feel included, they’re more likely to embrace change rather than resist it. Let them participate in age-appropriate moving tasks, which can help build excitement and a sense of control.

Ideas to involve them:

Let them help pack up their own room
Give them choices for how to decorate their new space
Create a “moving day” playlist or activity bag together

For older kids, take it a step further—let them explore your new community online or research cool places to visit near your new home, such as Big Foot Beach State Park or the East Troy Railroad Museum.

3. Stick to Routines as Much as Possible

Kids rely on routines to feel safe. During a move, everything can feel up in the air—so keeping certain habits intact can offer comfort and stability.

Try to keep:

Mealtimes and bedtimes consistent
Familiar snacks and favorite toys handy
Evening routines like bedtime stories or screen-free wind-down time

Even amid boxes and moving trucks, maintaining just a few “normal” moments each day will help kids adjust emotionally.

For example, if your child is used to having a Saturday breakfast tradition, bring that with you—even if it’s at a diner in Elkhorn or a drive-thru stop in Whitewater.

4. Make the New Home Feel Familiar Quickly

Once you’re in the new home, prioritize setting up your kids’ spaces first. A familiar room full of their favorite things can help ease the transition. This goes a long way toward making them feel at home.

What to focus on first:

Unpack their favorite bedding, toys, and books right away
Set up their furniture as similarly as possible to the old house
Create cozy spaces where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed

And don’t forget: get them out and exploring the area as soon as they’re ready! Take a walk around the neighborhood, visit the local library, or hit a playground in Fontana or Sharon.

5. Keep a Positive (but Honest) Attitude

Your attitude will set the tone. If you’re overwhelmed, your kids will pick up on it. That doesn’t mean you need to hide your stress—but balance honesty with optimism.

Try saying:

“I’m feeling a little nervous too, but I think this will be a great place for us.”
“I know saying goodbye is hard. But we’ll make lots of new memories here.”

Validate their feelings, but also encourage curiosity and excitement about the new place. In Walworth County, there’s no shortage of ways to create those memories—from lakeside picnics to county fairs and sledding hills.

Bonus Tip: Plan a Goodbye and a Hello

Let your child say goodbye to your current home and hello to the new one in a meaningful way.

Some ideas:

Take a “goodbye tour” of your favorite local spots in your old neighborhood
Have your child make a scrapbook or photo book of their old home
Create a “hello checklist” of fun things to do in the new community

Celebrating both the end of one chapter and the start of another helps with emotional closure and excitement.

Final Thoughts

Moving with kids is never completely stress-free, but it doesn’t have to be chaotic either. By preparing ahead, involving your children in the process, and staying grounded in your routines, your move can be a meaningful (and even fun!) family experience.

Whether you’re moving to a home on the shores of Lake Geneva, a quiet farmette near Darien, or a neighborhood in East Troy, these moving with kids tips will help your family land with confidence and comfort.