Moving can be a stressful and challenging experience for any family. When you have a child with special needs, the complexities of moving day can multiply. Whether it’s accommodating physical disabilities, sensory sensitivities or unique medical needs, addressing your child’s special needs during a move is crucial for a successful relocation. With help from the experts at Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration, we’ve gathered tips to help your family navigate the moving process with confidence and ease. These moving tips for families will ensure that every member of your family feels safe, supported and comfortable throughout the move.
Moving Tips for Families with Children with Special Needs:
1. Choose a Moving Company Experienced with Special Needs
Select a moving company familiar with the unique needs of families with children with disabilities to ensure they handle your move with the necessary sensitivity and care.
Choosing the right movers requires a bit of research. Start by looking for experienced movers with excellent client reviews, good reputations and notable awards. It’s essential that the movers demonstrate clear communication. They should also show a willingness to listen and the ability to tailor their services to your unique circumstances. Begin your search by consulting friends, family and community networks to gather recommendations for services in your area. Opt for a full service moving company like NorthStar Moving that can offer a wider range of services such as packing and storage. An experienced moving company will also be able to give you specific moving tips for families.
2. Plan Accessible Routes and Services
Work with your movers to plan a route and schedule that accommodates your child’s accessibility needs, including any specific stops or adjustments during the move.
3. Use Professional Packing for Sensitive Items
Have your movers pack and label essential items like medical supplies, sensory tools, and comfort objects with extra care to ensure they remain accessible and undamaged.
4. Set Up Your Child’s Space First
Arrange for your movers to prioritize setting up your child’s bedroom or designated area immediately upon arrival to help them settle into their new environment quickly.
5. Communicate Special Equipment and Medical Needs
Inform your moving company about any specialized equipment or medical devices your child uses, so they can take the necessary precautions during transport.
6. Consider Temporary Storage for Immediate Needs
Utilize temporary storage solutions for items your child might need right away, such as therapy equipment or favorite comfort objects, to keep them within easy reach.
7. Prepare Your Child with a Visual Schedule
Create a visual schedule or social story about the move to help your child understand what to expect, reducing anxiety and providing a sense of control.
8. Maintain Routines and Consistency
As you prepare for the move, maintain your child’s regular routines and schedules as much as possible. This consistency can help ease the transition and reduce stress.
9. Involve Your Child in the Packing Process
Engage your child in packing their belongings, if they’re comfortable. Allow them to help pack their favorite items and make decisions about their new room, which can help them feel more involved and in control.
10. Plan for Comfort and Flexibility on Moving Day
Discuss any special considerations with your movers, such as the need for frequent breaks or flexibility to accommodate your child’s needs. Ensure you have a plan in place for their comfort and support during the move.
11. Schedule Pre-Move Visits or Virtual Tours
If possible, arrange for your child to visit the new home or take virtual tours to familiarize them with the new environment. This can help reduce anxiety and create a sense of anticipation.
12. Pack an Essential “Go-To” Bag for Your Child
Prepare a bag with all the essentials your child may need during the move. These may include medications, favorite toys, sensory tools and comfort items. Keep this bag easily accessible throughout the moving process.
There are many moving tips for families to consider, but packing a first night box with the essentials is crucial to making the first night in your new home comfortable. This box should include items like clean bedsheets, fresh pjs, toiletries, snacks and charges.
For long-distance moves, you will need to pack enough clothes and essentials to last until the moving truck arrives at the new house. These boxes or suitcases should travel with you in the car rather than the moving truck to ensure they are easily accessible. This careful preparation will help make the transition smoother and more comfortable for everyone involved.
13. Discuss the Move with Therapists and Support Providers
Inform your child’s therapists or support providers about the move and seek their advice on how to manage the transition. They may offer valuable insights and strategies for supporting your child during this period.
14. Create a Calming Space in the New Home
Plan to set up a calming, sensory-friendly space in your new home where your child can retreat and feel secure amid the chaos of unpacking and settling in.
15. Monitor and Address Adjustment Issues Promptly
After the move, keep an eye on how your child is adjusting and address any issues or concerns quickly. Stay in touch with your moving company if you need additional assistance or adjustments in the new home.
These 15 tips provide a solid starting point, but every child is unique, and your child’s specific needs may require additional considerations during a move. Sean Lynam, a dedicated writer specializing in health, fitness, wellness and mental health suggests also taking steps before your move to stabilize the exterior of your new home by making pathways smoother and more secure with the right tools to reduce the risk of trips and falls, which is crucial for those with mobility challenges. He also recommends creating a checklist related both to your child’s special needs and the moving process. Adding specific tasks to your moving checklist like, getting your child’s medical records, filling up on prescriptions, sorting out their school documents, can ensure you don’t forget anything.
In summary
Moving with a child who has special needs presents unique challenges. With careful planning, moving can be a positive experience for the whole family. By selecting an experienced moving company, maintaining routines and involving your child in the process, you can help ease the transition and create a sense of stability during this significant change. Remember to communicate openly with your movers, therapists and support providers to ensure that every detail is addressed. With these tips, you will create a supportive and comfortable environment for your child.
Contributor:
Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration
Inclusion Matters is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California, dedicated to creating inclusive playgrounds and educational programs that foster a sense of community and acceptance for children of all abilities. Their mission is to create inclusive spaces where all children, regardless of their physical or developmental abilities, can enjoy the benefits of play and build lasting friendships.
You can help support their work by donating here.