Moving can be a stressful step for a family, especially for children, as they have to leave their friends, attend a new school, and adjust to a new community. The parents' attention before, during and after the moving process is crucial and can make a big difference in their adjustment to the new location. Following are moving tips to help your family have the smoothest move possible.

• Make a plan for packing, such as which rooms will get packed first. Try to pack young children’s belongings last to minimize any disruption for them.
  
  
• Let your kids take with them in their own bags things that they don't want to pack, such as blankets or special toys.
  
  
• Make travel arrangements well in advance and aim to make the trip as stress-free as possible. If flying to your new destination, book a direct flight. If driving, map out a route and determine a reasonable amount of time to devote to driving each day. Book hotel accommodations in advance.
  
  
• Pre-arrange for services prior to arriving at your new home, such as phone service, cable TV hookups, Internet access, etc.
  
  
• Assign family members with sorting, packing and moving day responsibilities to make things as efficient as possible and ensure that all family members feel involved in the moving process.
  
  
• Find babysitters to help out with children to give you some time to pack. Also, find help on moving day to keep the children away from those moving heavy furniture, to avoid tears as they watch their beloved toy chest being moved out of the house, etc.
  
  
• Board your pets for move day since the doors will be open. Ask your veterinarian for tips on moving with pets.
  
  
• Keep a record of essential information, such as birth certificates, medical records, dental records, school records, etc., in a secure folder that travels with you. Also consider carrying irreplaceable items, such as family photographs, with you.
  
  
• Pack a suitcase with the necessities you’ll need upon arriving at your new home, such as paper towels, toilet paper, soap, shampoo, towels, shower curtain, etc.
  
  
• Pack an “entertainment bag” for plane or car travel filled with a change of clothing, toys, snacks, books and toiletries.
  
  
• Create a contingency plan for sleeping in your new home the first few nights. If you arrive ahead of your furniture, you may consider packing (or purchasing upon arrival) sleeping bags, pillows, paper plates, plastic utensils, etc.
  
  
• Research children’s activities in your new location ahead of the move. Children will need a break from unpacking (as will the adults!). Or, perhaps one parent could entertain while the other one unpacks.
  
  
• Send a surprise gift, one that will be at the house when you arrive, such as a fun lawn game (a trampoline, volleyball net, crochet, etc.) to celebrate your big move.
  
  
• Try with your routine when possible, such as family dinners.