6–8 Weeks Out: Set the Foundation

• Talk openly about the move, timeline, and what stays the same; invite questions and feelings.

• Map essentials near the new home: schools, childcare, parks, pediatrician, dentist, urgent care, after‑school options.

• Start school transfers: request records, immunizations, IEP/504 (if applicable), and note enrollment deadlines.

• Create a family calendar with packing milestones, appointments, goodbyes, and key school dates.

4–5 Weeks Out: Declutter and Organize

• Sort with kid input: keep, donate, sell, pass‑along; let each child keep a few comfort “must‑haves.”

• Reduce clothing, toys, and books; photograph sentimental items before donating.

• Order supplies: small/medium and wardrobe boxes, tape, packing paper, bubble wrap, markers, zip bags, clear bins.

• Set a “Do Not Pack” zone for documents, meds, devices, chargers, comfort items, and next‑day outfits.

2–3 Weeks Out: Prep Rooms and Routines

• Pack low‑use items first; keep daily essentials out until the final days.

• Label by child/room and priority: “Open First,” “Week One,” “Later”; number boxes and keep a simple list.

• Photograph wiring and room setups (desks, gaming, shelves) for quick re‑creation.

• Confirm childcare/help for heavy packing days and moving day.

The Week Before: Comfort and Continuity

• First‑Night kit per child: pajamas, two outfits, toiletries, favorite plush/blanket, bedtime book, nightlight, snacks, water bottle, school basics.
• Family Go Bag: medications, compact first‑aid, wipes, sanitizer, chargers, power bank, documents, small cash, keys.
• Keep routines steady: meals, bedtimes, screen limits; plan simple, familiar dinners.
• Plan goodbyes: brief class moment, playdate, a signature page or photo book.

Moving Day: Safety and Smooth Flow

• Arrange supervision: ideally, have young kids off‑site; otherwise set a quiet “safe room” with crafts/snacks.

• Stage the home: clear paths, protect floors, cluster labeled boxes near exits.

• Load kids’ items last so they unload first; make beds before evening.

• Keep the Go Bag with you; never load meds or essential documents on the truck.

Travel Logistics with Kids

• By car: schedule breaks, rotate activities, preload audiobooks/playlists, verify car‑seat fit and safety.

• By air: extra outfits, snacks, empty water bottle, wipes, headphones, comfort item in each child’s backpack; pre‑download entertainment.

First 48 Hours: Settle Fast

• Sleep first: set up beds, nightlights, essential curtains/blinds, and white‑noise or a fan.

• Create a familiar corner: favorite books, plush toys, small rug, a couple of framed photos.

• Rebuild study spot: desk, lamp, supplies, chargers to restore school routines.

• Walk the neighborhood: park, school route, library, and a nearby café/ice‑cream spot.

School and Activities

• Confirm enrollment, bus/transport, after‑care; schedule tours if available.

• Transfer sports and lessons; try trial classes to re‑establish routine.

• Build social bridges: join parent groups, set intro playdates, practice simple self‑introductions.

Emotional Check‑Ins

• Daily “rose, thorn, bud”: best thing, hardest thing, what’s ahead.

• Memory and meaning: photo book of the old home; create a “new home wish list.”

• Watch stress signals (sleep shifts, clinginess, school resistance); counter with routine and small, child‑led choices.

Age‑Specific Tips

• Toddlers/Preschool: stick to naps/bedtime; use picture books about moving; change one thing at a time.

• Elementary: involve them in labeling and room planning; let them choose décor or a first‑week activity.

• Tweens/Teens: include them in scheduling and school research; respect privacy, friends, and online connections.

Quick Parent Checklists

• Documents: IDs, birth certificates, immunizations, school records, IEP/504, medical/dental records, prescriptions.

• Safety: childproof kit (outlet covers, cabinet locks), temporary baby gates, basic tools, flashlights, batteries.

• Essentials: medications, thermometers, comfort items, snacks, water bottles, chargers, compact first‑aid kit.

• Home setup: beds/bedding, towels, shower curtain/liners, basic cookware, paper goods, soap, trash bags, multi‑tool.

How Lifetime Movers Makes It Easier

• Family‑smart scheduling that unloads and sets up kids’ rooms first.

• Packing help for kitchens and children’s spaces, with debris removal and furniture reassembly.

• Gentle handling with clear labels and room‑by‑room staging for a calm first night and school‑ready morning.