Moving With Infants
Juggling work and sleep schedules during a move is difficult enough for adults. If you’re moving with an infant in tow — that kicks it up a few notches.
But don’t worry; while moving with a little one requires special planning — from dealing with all of the baby’s items to finding the right time for naps, play, and feedings — a significant number of people do it successfully every year. These tips can help you navigate your move with an infant.
Keep Up the Routine
Maintaining your child’s routine during a move may feel next to impossible (and some times, it will be). But infants thrive on consistency, so do your best to keep the routine as close to normal as you can.
Bonus Tip: Sticking to your usual nap and feeding schedule will help add structure to your life, too, helping mitigate the chaos that can surround moving.
Bring in a Babysitter
Look, you’re just one person, and you can’t do it all. There are only so many moving tasks you can accomplish while also providing the constant care and supervision infants require.
If you find yourself stretched thin, call in a babysitter, trusted friend, or family member to help. Don’t be afraid to delegate, both during the packing process and on moving day.
Pack the Nursery Strategically
You’re already rushing to get packing done during baby’s nap time. But despite time limitations, don’t give in to the impulse to simply throw everything from the nursery into boxes. It may be easier at the time, but something you need is bound to come up missing.
Instead, take time to plan and pack strategically — you’ll thank yourself later. Start by packing the non-essential items, like extra blankets, clothes the baby won’t be wearing anytime soon, and toys that you can do without until after the move.
Then gather the essentials, such as:
- Favorite toys
- Diapers and wipes
- Enough clothing to make it through the move (including extra outfits in case of accidents)
- Snacks
- Sippy cups, bottles, and utensils
- Pacifiers
- Stroller
- Car seat
- Medications and first aid
Pack these essentials last and set them aside. You’ll want to know where these supplies are at all times and ensure easy access.
Focus On Safety
When a lot is going on — boxes everywhere, doors left open, people coming and going — keeping a focus on safety is extra essential. Enlist other adults’ help to keep an eye out for dangerous items that might be left within reach of a young one, such as scissors, plastic wrap, or packing tape in sharp-edged dispensers.
Consider designating a “safe room” where a responsible adult can care for your baby while you are busy tending to essential moving day tasks.
Set Up the Nursery First
The priority at your new home on moving day should be to set up the nursery. Having this room set-up will provide you with a place to change and settle your infant and put them to sleep on the first evening in your new home. Try to arrange the nursery similar to the layout in your previous home. The familiarity might help you and your infant transition to your new home quicker.
A Family Move
As anyone who’s ever moved will tell you, moving can be stressful — when you add an infant into the mix, the stress level can be off the charts. But with planning and care, you and your little one will have a positive moving experience.
Hiring professional movers can take the load off. From packing to loading and even unloading, pro movers can help you handle your upcoming move. Contact us today for an estimate. We can help get your family into your new home with the least amount of stress.