4 Ways to Keep Kids Entertained During a Move

Whether it's across town or across the country, a move is always an adventure, and if you've got little ones, it can also be an exercise in patience. Bless their hearts--they want to help, they want to be held, they want to play, they want food, or a host of other wants and needs. Having moved from California to Phoenix, and back again in the past year, I've learned a few tricks that help make moving a bit easier for the little ones.

Have them color or paint pictures to hang in the new house.
It's something they love to do anyway, and it'll keep them out of your hair for a few precious minutes while you pack. Plus, the pictures will always be a reminder of the adventure.

Let them help.
Surprisingly, your little ones can be a big help, and they enjoy doing it, so let them pitch in with the packing efforts. They can pack up the toys in their room, or if they have their own sets of plates, bowls, and cups they can pack up their dishes, along with any Tupperware or plastics you may have.

Set up a movie station.
A portable DVD player or laptop will become your best friend during a move. Place pillows in a corner to make it extra cozy, and keep three or four of their favorite movies on hand. This could also be a reading station. 

Take play breaks.

This is as important to you as it is to them. You need (and deserve) a break and they're dying for some attention, so put down the boxes and play a quick game of hide-and-seek, sing Wheels on the Bus, or color with them for awhile.

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