8 Tips for Moving During the School Term (Without the Stress)
There’s no denying that moving house is stressful. And while most of us would love to do it during quieter periods like school holidays, sometimes the timing can’t be helped.
The good news is, moving during the school term can go smoothly. Here’s what you should do when moving during the school year to keep the stress to a minimum.
Moving During the School Term vs Moving During the School Holidays
Many families choose to move during the school holidays so they have more time to settle in. But, moving during the school term can actually work to your advantage. Here is a clear comparison of the pros and cons of each.
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School term |
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Pros |
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Cons |
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Quick takeaway:
School holidays are great if you want to avoid disruption to class or work. Meanwhile, moving during the term can save money and help kids stay grounded with consistent routines.
8 Tips to Move During the School Term
Here are eight practical tips to help make a move during the school term less stressful for everyone.
1. Time Your Move Strategically
If you can’t move during school holidays, aim for a weekend or the end of the school week. This gives your children a day or two to adjust before returning to class. If possible, avoid moving before a big test, presentation or school event.
If you’re relocating to a different area or state, check school term dates for both regions. They don’t always align, so you’ll have to plan ahead.
2. Communicate Early with The School
As soon as you know your moving date, let your child’s school know. Teachers can be a huge help, emotionally and academically. They might also provide:
- School reports or transfer documents
- Curriculum details to help with continuity
- Extra support if your child is struggling with the change
Even if your child is staying at the same school, a heads-up will help teachers be more mindful of fatigue or emotional overwhelm during the transition.
3. Declutter Before You Pack
Moving during the school year is much easier when you have less stuff. Before packing, go through clothes, toys and books and donate or discard what your family no longer uses.
This will speed up packing and unpacking so you can go back to the school and work routine quicker.
4. Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible
Moving houses is a big change, and sticking to routines can be comforting for kids. Try to keep familiar rhythms like:
- Bedtimes
- Morning routines
- Homework and reading time
- Meal schedules
5. Involve Your Kids in The Process
Give your child tasks they can handle to give them a sense of control. You could:
- Let them pack their own room or a “favourites” box
- Get them to choose paint colours or décor for their new room
- Show them photos of the new house and neighbourhood
For younger kids, turn packing into a fun game. For older children, have open conversations about their worries. They’ll benefit a lot just from feeling heard.
6. Prepare Meals Ahead of Time
Moving week can throw meal routines out the window. It’s hard to pack school lunches and have dinner ready while moving your whole home.
Save time and stress by:
- Cooking and freezing family-friendly meals in advance
- Stocking quick snacks for kids
- Planning simple breakfasts and packed lunches
This keeps everyone fed and happy, as well as save money by avoiding last-minute takeout.
7. Get Professional Removal Help
You might burnout fast if you try to manage a move on top of work and school. Hiring a professional local removalist can take a huge load off your shoulder, saving time and protecting your belongings.
A trusted company like Holloway Removals has experienced movers who understand how to handle family moves efficiently. Some even offer packing services, which can be a lifesaver when your schedule is tight. That way, you can focus on supporting your kids instead of lifting boxes.
8. Focus on A Calm First Night
The first night in your new home sets the tone for the days ahead. Aim to:
- Set up beds first
- Unpack school uniforms and essentials
- Prepare an easy dinner
- Stick to usual bedtime routines
You don’t need to unpack everything at once. A calm, organised first night helps children feel settled and ready for school the next day.
Key Takeaways
Moving during the school term is definitely possible with thoughtful planning, open communication, and the right support. The secret to a successful family relocation during school is to stay organised, keep routines, and lean on professionals when you need to. You can reduce stress and help your children feel supported every step of the way.
