13 Apr 2020
If you are in the process of planning your move, but have found that your plans have been put on hold because of Covid-19, it can be unsettling, and especially so for your children.
Moving home can be an extremely exciting time, but in a period of uncertainty there can be extra worries. Older children will be unsure of leaving their friends behind, if they are moving further afield and younger children can just find the whole process quite bewildering.
Here are some of the best books to help kids cope with moving house:
Moving House - by Usborne First Experiences
Age 0-8 Years
This beautifully illustrated book is suitable for very young children by gently introducing them to the process of moving house. There is lots to see and look for in the pictures and the story has an amusing element making the whole concept of moving house fun. There is also a sticker book version - for a little more interaction.
And remember - moving house can be one of the biggest adventures you and your children may have. Maybe one that is even worth writing about.
We're Moving - by Heather Maisner, Houghton Mifflin Company
Age 0 - 7 Years
A delightful book about Amy, a pre-schooler, who doesn't want to move as it will mean she will have to say good-bye to her best friend as well as leave the garden she planted with her dad. The illustrations are lovely to look at and the story will encourage younger children to talk about their feelings and any concerns that they may have about moving house.
Berenstain Bears' Moving Day - by Random House, Incorporated
Age 3- 7 years
Many children are already aware of the Berenstain Bear stories and so will easily associate with the characters, in particular Brother Bear. The book raises some of the fears that children may have about moving house but all turns out for the best in the end - which is great for re-assuring younger children about moving day.
Moving Molly - by Shirley Hughes (Red Fox Picture Books)
Age 2 - 7 Years
A lovely book for young children about missing your previous home once the novelty of moving house is over - but there are adventures to be had in next-door's garden. A good book to read to young children or give to early readers to have a go themselves.
Moving House (First Times) - by Rebecca Hunter
Age 2 - 8 Years
A clever book that explores the whole "first time" experience of moving house with specially commissioned photographs to support the narrative. There is also 2 levels of text so that early readers to join in, or simply look at the pictures and be read to.
The Mission of Detective Mike : Moving Abroad - by Simone T. Costa Eriksson
Age 5-9 Years
This book is perfect for expat families intending on moving abroad. It deals with a child's concerns and fears about moving to another country, what will happen to his toys, as well as about learning the language. Written by both a psychologist and expatriate.
The Moving Book - A Kids' Survival Guide - by Gabriel Davis (First Books Inc)
Age 8 -12 Years
A great book about moving house for older children (approximately 8-13 years). This comprehensive guide is extremely organised and helps to prepared kids to move house. It deals with everything from how to cope with any anxieties that they may have to how to keep in touch with friends they are leaving behind.
We've also put together a guide to help and advise on moving home with children which many parents have said has been helpful.
