Moving with kids? From the initial unknowns and ‘what if’s,’ to the jolt of watching all your things disappear in to boxes, to the disruption of patterns and day to day comforts, there is much about moving that can introduce uncertainty in to a child’s life. Setting expectations, asking and answering questions, and quickly creating new routines can go a long way to helping alleviate the pain of a move. As can helping your child to view the move as an adventure—which is sometimes easier done through the eyes of a fictional character or two. . . .
1) The Berenstain Bears' Moving Day by Stan Berenstain and Jan Berenstain
This classic has stood the test of time, remaining a go-to resource for kids going through their first family move. The Berenstain Bears thoughtfully present the challenges and anxieties accompanying a move and provide kids with a starting point to ask their own questions.
This classic has stood the test of time, remaining a go-to resource for kids going through their first family move. The Berenstain Bears thoughtfully present the challenges and anxieties accompanying a move and provide kids with a starting point to ask their own questions.
2) Alexander, Who's Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move by Judith Viorst, Ray Cruz and Robin Preiss Glasser
From the author of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, this book explores Alexander’s anger and frustration after being told by his parents that they will be moving. With humor and candor, Viorst tells the tale in an entertaining and relatable way while opening the door to discussions on how to handle feelings and emotions in a healthy way.
3) Boomer's Big Day by Constance W. McGeorge
Boomer, the loveable family dog, struggles to understand what is happening as he watches his family’s belongings get packed up and loaded on a truck. Readers follow along as Boomer goes through the stress and anxiety of a move and ultimately enjoys exploring his new home. Accompanied with heartwarming illustrations, this sweet tale is sure to speak to your young children and to help them understand moving in a sympathetic and relatable way.
4) My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary, Big Move: A workbook for children moving to a new home by Lori Attanasio Woodring
This workbook walks kids through the moving process, engaging them in questions, activities, and suggestions to help them deal with change and the emotions that come along with it. Also available in Spanish, this book helps provide your children with coping mechanisms while entertaining them along the way.
5) My Best Friend Moved Away by Nancy Carlson
Told from the perspective of the friend that stays behind, this is a great tale to help your child understand how a move impacts everyone or to give to friends your child is leaving behind to help them with the process as well.
6) Max's Moving Adventure Coloring and Activities Book: A Coloring Book for Kids on the Move by Danelle Till (Author), Joe Spooner (Illustrator)
A coloring book accompanied by activities and topics to help entertain kids as well as guide them through the moving process. The activities and coloring are geared toward older kids versus the very young. Your 7-10 year old will find Max’s Moving Adventure engaging and helpful throughout the move.
7) Big Ernie's New Home: A Story for Children Who Are Moving by Teresa Martin
For kids in preschool and kindergarten, this cute tale is told from the perspective of the worried family cat. Read it to your child before the move to help them prepare, ask questions, and relate to Ernie’s concerns.
8) Inside Out: Inside My Mind: A Book About Me!
Disney’s Inside Out tells the story of pre-teen Riley, her cross-country move, and the emotional struggles that follow. Some children enjoy this movie while others may find the topic to be a bit too heavy. You should watch the movie in advance to decide if it is appropriate for your child. Beyond the movie, take a look at Inside Out themed resources like the workbook Inside My Mind for a helpful guide to walking children through the idea of emotional awareness.
8) Inside Out: Inside My Mind: A Book About Me!
Disney’s Inside Out tells the story of pre-teen Riley, her cross-country move, and the emotional struggles that follow. Some children enjoy this movie while others may find the topic to be a bit too heavy. You should watch the movie in advance to decide if it is appropriate for your child. Beyond the movie, take a look at Inside Out themed resources like the workbook Inside My Mind for a helpful guide to walking children through the idea of emotional awareness.
9) Moving Day! (Helping Hands Series) by Jess Stockham
Looking for a simple way to break down the pieces of a move (logistically at least) so that your child will know what to expect and how they can help? A simple and digestible portrayal of how a move occurs for younger kids (aged 2-5).
10) Ira Says Goodbye Paperback by Bernard Waber
Geared toward kids age 4-7, this heartfelt book looks at moving through the eyes of a child and offers up hope and encouragement during tough times of transition. It’s an older book but has stood the test of time.
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