The first week after a big move often sets the tone for how your family will settle into the new environment. Between unpacking boxes and learning how the light switches work, there’s another equally important challenge: adjusting kids and pets after moving. Whether you’re relocating just a few blocks away or using professional long distance moving services for a cross-country move, your children and furry companions are going through a lot of change—and they’ll need your support.
In this article, you’ll find practical, comforting tips for helping children adjust to a new home and supporting your pets as they settle in. A smooth first week can ease emotional transitions and help everyone feel at home, faster.
Understand the Emotional Impact of Change
Kids and animals alike thrive on routine and familiarity. A move disrupts everything they know—from daily rhythms to the layout of their surroundings. For children, the emotional toll might look like mood swings, clinginess, or sleep disturbances. Pets, especially dogs and cats, may hide, refuse to eat, or act out.
Recognizing that these behaviors are a natural response to stress is the first step. You’re not just moving into a new home; you’re building a new routine for kids after moving, and creating that structure quickly will help everyone feel more secure.
1. Prioritize Unpacking Their Essentials First
In the chaos of moving day, it’s tempting to unpack the kitchen or living room first. But for the sake of helping children adjust to a new home, focus on setting up their bedrooms and familiar spaces right away. The same goes for pets—set up their bed, crate, toys, and food/water bowls as soon as possible.
Familiar smells, objects, and layouts give both kids and animals a sense of control and safety. It also signals that they still have their “territory” in this unfamiliar place.
2. Stick to a Consistent Daily Schedule
If your child usually eats dinner at 6 PM, do your best to maintain that—even if you’re still eating off of cardboard boxes. The same goes for bedtime routines, walk times for dogs, and feeding schedules for pets.
Establishing a routine for kids after moving helps their internal clock adjust more quickly. Familiar rhythms bring comfort and remind them that life goes on, even in a new setting.
3. Create Predictable “Zones” in the New Home
Kids and pets feel more grounded when their environment is predictable. Set up consistent spaces for:
- Playtime or downtime
- Homework or quiet reading
- Pet feeding or litter boxes
- Outdoor time (with supervision)
Even something as simple as always feeding your pet in the same corner of the kitchen or reading to your child in the same chair can establish reassuring familiarity.
4. Spend One-on-One Time Together
It’s easy to get swept up in tasks like unpacking and housework. But adjusting kids and pets after moving requires emotional connection. Dedicate time each day to simply be present with your child or pet—go for a walk, read a book, play a game, or cuddle on the couch.
This direct attention reassures them that, even though the scenery has changed, the love and stability they count on are still there.
5. Ease Into New Routines Gradually
While consistency is important, don’t feel pressured to create the “perfect” schedule immediately. If your child is starting at a new school, give them time to emotionally settle before adding after-school activities. If your dog isn’t eating much, consider feeding them smaller portions at familiar times until their appetite returns.
A phased approach helps both kids and pets adjust without feeling overwhelmed.
6. Watch for Signs of Distress
Both children and animals may exhibit signs of distress during the first week after moving with kids and pets. These might include:
- Kids: nightmares, increased tantrums, trouble concentrating, clinginess
- Pets: hiding, excessive barking/meowing, accidents indoors, loss of appetite
While mild symptoms are normal, prolonged or severe issues may indicate the need for extra support. For kids, this could mean talking to a school counselor. For pets, consider a vet check-up or a calming pheromone spray to ease anxiety.
7. Introduce the New Neighborhood Slowly
Once everyone is relatively settled indoors, it’s time to start exploring the outside world. Helping children adjust to a new home means letting them slowly warm up to their surroundings. Take walks around the block, visit local parks, or find nearby playgrounds.
The same applies to pets. Let dogs sniff out their new territory on a leash walk. Always keep outdoor pets secured until they’ve adapted to the new space—they may try to return to their old home if allowed to roam too soon.
8. Involve Kids in Setting Up the Home
Let your children help choose how their new room is arranged, or where to hang artwork. Giving them a voice in these decisions can make them feel more empowered and connected to the new space.
If you have a dog or cat, allow them to explore slowly, one room at a time, rather than overwhelming them with access to the whole house. This controlled exploration is key for pet adjustment after a move.
9. Reintroduce Social Activities Thoughtfully
Social connections are crucial—especially for kids who may be missing their old friends. If they’re starting school mid-year, try to schedule a school tour before the first day. For younger children, attend local story hours, library events, or playgroups.
Likewise, if you used long distance moving services and your pet has traveled a great distance, avoid immediate exposure to other pets or busy dog parks. Let them build confidence in the new environment before socializing.
10. Be Patient and Positive
Above all, be patient. Moving is a process, and tips for easing post-move transitions all come down to time, consistency, and love. Celebrate small wins—your child’s first good night’s sleep, your dog wagging its tail, your cat finally exploring the living room.
Acknowledge their emotions, create comforting rituals, and remind them that home isn’t just a place—it’s where your family is.
Final Thoughts
The first week after moving with kids and pets is filled with adjustment, emotion, and uncertainty. But it’s also a precious opportunity to build resilience, comfort, and new memories together.
By staying present, creating predictable routines, and offering reassurance, you’ll not only survive the transition—you’ll thrive in your new home.
