Ashley

 Nobody Wants to Move: A Mom’s Guide to DIY Packing with Kids

Ah, moving. That glorious time when you get to uproot your life, shove everything you own into boxes, and somehow convince your kids that chaos is just another word for adventure. Spoiler alert: nobody wants to move. Not you, not your kids, and definitely not the cat who’s suddenly found a fondness for hiding in the back of the closet.

But fear not! With a sprinkle of humor, a dash of organization, and perhaps a few extra snacks, we can turn this overwhelming task into a manageable (and even somewhat enjoyable) experience. Here’s how to tackle DIY packing with kids without losing your sanity or your sense of humor.

 1. **Get Everyone on Board**

First things first: explain the move to your little ones. Use terms they can understand, like “new adventure” or “huge treasure hunt.” Just avoid the word “uprooting,” as that might lead to some existential crises for your four-year-old.

Make it a family event! Create a family meeting (cue the eye rolls) where everyone can share their thoughts and feelings about moving. Acknowledge the sadness of leaving but remind them of the excitement ahead. If all else fails, promise a pizza party at the new place. Pizza fixes everything.

 2. **Create a Packing Game Plan**

Here’s where we can really channel our inner Marie Kondo (minus the zen). Start by decluttering together—yes, even the toys. Kids are surprisingly ruthless when it comes to deciding which stuffed animals deserve to make the cut. Just remember to keep a close eye on them; you might end up with a “Goodbye, Snuggles” ceremony that includes way too much crying.

**Packing Strategy:**

– **Room by Room:** Tackle one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Assign each kid a room (bonus points if you can turn it into a race).
– **Color Coding:** Use colored labels or markers for each kid’s belongings. That way, when you’re at the new place and you see a bright pink label, you’ll know it’s not yours—thankfully!
– **Box of Essentials:** Create a “survival box” for each family member that includes pajamas, favorite toys, and snacks. Trust me, the last thing you want is a meltdown at bedtime because someone can’t find their favorite dinosaur.

 3. **Make It Fun (and Funny)**

Turn packing into a game. Set a timer and see who can fill their box the fastest (without breaking anything, of course). If the kids are really resistant, try a “Packing Olympics.” Events could include:

– **Box Building:** Who can stack boxes the highest without it toppling over?
– **Tape Relay:** Who can successfully tape a box shut the fastest? (Bonus points for dramatic slow-motion replays.)
– **Dodge the Cat:** This is less of an event and more of a necessary survival skill when you’re trying to pack.

 4. **Snack Attack!**

Let’s face it—snacks are essential. Keep a steady supply of “brain fuel” handy. You could even create a “Snack Station” in your living room. Stock it with granola bars, fruit snacks, and maybe a few emergency chocolate bars for you, because you’re definitely going to need them.

 5. **The Great Toy Relocation**

As you pack, consider letting the kids help with their toys. Give them each a box and say, “Everything you can fit in here is going to the new house!” Watch as they cram their beloved items in and marvel at their ability to prioritize what really matters. Pro tip: this is also an excellent time to “accidentally” donate any forgotten toys hiding in the back of the closet. They’ll never miss them!

 6. **Unpacking Chaos**

When you finally arrive at your new home, take a deep breath. The hardest part is over! As you begin to unpack, don’t expect immediate organization. Embrace the chaos for a few days. Make it a family challenge: whoever finds the most “lost treasures” in the boxes gets to choose dinner for a week (or at least until the next box is opened).

 7. **Celebrate!**

After the dust settles and your boxes are (mostly) unpacked, take a moment to celebrate. Order pizza, watch a movie, or have a family dance party. Remember, this is a new chapter for your family, and that’s worth celebrating—even if you’re still trying to find the remote control.

 Conclusion

So, while nobody wants to move, with a little organization, some creativity, and a lot of snacks, you can survive the packing and unpacking chaos with your sanity intact. Embrace the madness, enjoy the time with your kids, and soon enough, you’ll look back and laugh (maybe over a glass of wine) at the whirlwind that was your move. Here’s to new beginnings—and hopefully a little less moving in the future!