Moving as a Family: It’s Not All About You 

A move to a different city is bound to affect more than just one person in your family. Even if an upcoming move is largely related to your personal circumstances, it’s important to remember the rest of your family members are bound to be affected, too. You are part of a larger context with many “moving parts,” after all. 

Let’s look at the moving experience from all sides and how the different “you’s” involved can come together to make a family move smoother and happier for everyone. 

As a Responsible Move Catalyst 

Often, heads of the household experience changes — such as a job relocation — that lead to a family move. Whether it’s for professional reasons or personal ones, like relocating to take care of a parent or other relative, moving is a major decision that you, your partner and your children should discuss together. It’s time to call a family meeting.  

Think about whether it makes sense to relocate everyone immediately. Is there the flexibility to, for example, move by yourself now and let your trailing partner stay in place so that the kids can finish out the school year? Besides your own career, what do the potential job prospects look like for your significant other? 

It’s a good idea for the whole family to visit your new neighborhood before move day. Experience your new surroundings with the loved ones who’ll be sharing it with you. See how it feels by “trying it on for size.” 

As the Trailing Partner 

If you’re moving on behalf of your partner, it’s definitely not all about you. While your needs are important, too, be open, be empathetic and most importantly don’t harbor resentment toward your loved one. Let your feelings be known. As part of a team, you’re in this move together and a major decision like this needs to be a mutual one. 

Think about how the move will affect you. Will the new neighborhood have the same amenities or potential go-to’s as the one you’re leaving? Are you going from a small town to a bigger city? Could you transition your current job into a remote working situation? Will you be taking the lead in managing the move or will there be additional resources at your disposal?  

As a Kid or Teen 

In just about every case, you’ll be following your parents’ or guardians’ lead. Making new friends, adjusting to a new school, or even saying goodbye to a boyfriend or girlfriend are just some of the challenges you might face.  

But there are two sides to every situation. A move means new opportunities to make friends, explore a brand-new neighborhood, cultivate new hobbies and interests, and enjoy decorating your new room. You’ll probably settle into your new life and routine sooner than you ever imagined. 

As you process the changes on the horizon, don’t forget that your parents or guardians aren’t doing this to you, but to benefit you and the rest of your family. It’s okay to voice your opinions and concerns — but also try and be supportive. It’s a big adjustment for everyone involved. It helps to know you’re in it together.  

As a Family 

The journey to finding your new home is a series of small steps that ladder up to a major change in all your lives. Mayflower is here to help Every Step of the Way® with tips, tricks, and suggestions on everything from packing up to settling in.