Moving with children in Montreal can be emotionally, logistically, and organizationally challenging. Whether you’re changing neighborhoods or starting fresh in a new city, this life event can be quite disruptive for young ones. However, with proper planning, reassuring support, and a few proven strategies, it can become a memorable family adventure.
This guide offers concrete and compassionate advice to help you manage a family move in Montreal while minimizing stress, tears—and meltdowns.
- Understand the Impact of Moving on Children For a child, a move isn’t just a new address. It’s a complete disruption of their world: school, friends, routines, bedroom, environment… everything changes.
Common Emotional Reactions
- Early childhood (0-5 years): confusion, irritability, sleep disturbances.
- School age (6-12 years): anxiety, withdrawal, resistance to change.
- Teenagers (13-17 years): defiance, fear of losing friendships, resentment of parental decisions.
💡 Tip: Talk to your children about the move as early as possible, using age-appropriate tools like books, drawings, or open discussions.
- Involve Children in the Process The more involved your child is, the more in control they feel, which builds emotional security.
Ideas to Try:
- Let them visit the new home (if possible) or show them pictures.
- Let them choose the color of their future room.
- Let them help pack their belongings.
🔗 First Apartment Essentials: What Do I Need to Buy?
- Choose the Right Moving Date Most moves in Montreal happen around July 1st, leading to high demand and inflated prices.
Tips:
- Avoid July 1st if you can.
- Book your movers several weeks (or months) in advance.
- If possible, move during school breaks to avoid disrupting your child’s academic routine.
- Move on Your Own or Hire Professionals? Moving with kids requires time, energy, and planning. Professional movers can ease the burden.
Benefits:
- Save time
- Protect your belongings
- Use proper equipment and techniques
🔗 Moving: Should You Go Solo or Hire Professionals?
- Pack Methodically Moving chaos can quickly spiral. Stay calm with these steps:
- Prepare an essentials box: pajamas, favorite toys, snacks, diapers, etc.
- Label each box clearly.
- Pack the child’s belongings last and unpack them first.
🔗 Moving: What to Think About – A Checklist for a Successful Move
- Keep Routines Stable Preserve bedtime, meals, and bath times as much as possible.
- Maintain regular activities.
- Set aside quiet times, even if you’re surrounded by boxes.
- Avoid multiple changes at once (like switching schools and moving simultaneously).
- Prepare the School Transition A school change can be the most stressful part of a move for kids.
- Inform the current school.
- Contact the new school (enrollment, transportation, etc.).
- Visit the school with your child before the first day.
🔗 Who to Notify When You Change Your Address?
- Moving in Winter: Watch the Weather Montreal winters bring extra challenges:
- Snow-covered or icy walkways
- Cold-sensitive items
- Slippery entryways
🔗 Preparing for Cold Winter Weather
- Moving During the Holidays? If your move falls during the holidays:
- Preserve the holiday spirit, even amid boxes.
- Set aside time for festive breaks.
- Plan early to avoid last-minute stress.
🔗 Tips for a Stress-Free Moving During the Holiday Season
- Prioritize Safety and Efficiency Secure high-traffic zones, keep kids away from the moving truck, and store sharp/heavy items safely.
🔗 Safe and Efficient Moving: Tips for Your Move
- Why Choose Local Movers in Montreal? Local movers understand narrow streets, staircases, parking regulations, and can tailor their service.
🔗 Local Movers: Why You Should Hire Them
- Working Remotely While Moving? If you’re working from home during your move:
- Set up a temporary workspace.
- Inform your coworkers or clients in advance.
- Schedule calls outside critical moving hours.
- After the Move: Rebuild Emotional Security Once everything is unpacked, the emotional transition begins.
Ideas:
- Cook your first meal together
- Decorate your child’s room together
- Invite new neighbors or friends
- Tips for Parents
- Be patient—kids need time to adjust
- Validate their emotions
- Give them ownership of their new environment
FAQ – Moving with Children in Montreal
🟡 At what age do kids understand a move? Around age 2-3, children begin noticing changes. By 5-6, they can articulate their feelings and understand the process.
🟡 How do I help my child deal with leaving friends? Encourage video calls, letters, or a goodbye party.
🟡 My child refuses to pack. What can I do? Turn packing into a game with stickers, a timer, or box decorating.
🟡 Should I take a day off work for the move? Yes, if possible. It will help you stay organized and better support your children.
🟡 Do moving companies offer family-friendly services? Some companies, like Déménagement Pro Service, offer packages tailored to families: packing help, quick service, and flexible scheduling.
Conclusion
Moving with children in Montreal is undoubtedly a challenge, but it’s also a chance to create lasting family memories. With the right support, thoughtful preparation, and trusted professionals, this chapter can mark the beginning of a fulfilling new adventure.
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🔗 10 Questions You MUST Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company
