How can I make the first night fun for kids?

Making the First Night Fun for Children in a New Home

Relocating can be a significant upheaval for children, and the first night in a new property often sets the tone for how quickly they adjust. Creating a positive and memorable experience on day one is crucial for their well-being and helps alleviate anxieties associated with unfamiliar surroundings.

Preparation Before Moving Day

Forward planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition. A dedicated 'first night' box for each child, packed with their favourite comforts, can make a significant difference.

• The 'First Night' Box: This essential box should be packed with items specifically chosen for the first night. Include pyjamas, a beloved teddy or blanket, a toothbrush, a storybook, and a small, familiar toy. For slightly older children, a tablet or headphones might be appropriate for winding down. Ensure this box travels with the family, not on the removal lorry, making it immediately accessible.
• Involve the Children: Where appropriate for their age, involve children in the moving process. Let them pack their own 'first night' box or choose the colour for their new room. This creates a sense of ownership and excitement.
• Discuss the Move: Talk openly about the move, what to expect, and answer any questions they might have. Reassure them that their familiar items will be joining them.

On Moving Day

The day itself is often busy and potentially disruptive. Minimising stress for children on this day is paramount.

• Keep Them Occupied: If possible, arrange for children to stay with friends or family during the main packing and moving process. This prevents them from being underfoot and experiencing the more disorganised parts of the day.
• Prioritise Their Bedroom: Once at the new property, make an effort to prioritise the children's bedrooms. Unpack their beds, set up their 'first night' box items, and create a semblance of familiarity. This provides a safe, personal space away from the ongoing unpacking.
• Address Safety Early: Before children begin exploring, quickly survey the property for immediate hazards. Consider how to childproof the new home, even with temporary measures, to prevent accidents.

The First Night Fun and Relaxation

With the essentials in place, focus can shift to making the evening enjoyable and relaxing. The goal is to create positive associations with the new home.

• Simple Comfort Food: A takeaway pizza or a readily prepared meal can be a welcome treat. Avoid the stress of trying to cook in an unfamiliar kitchen on the first night. Eating together, perhaps on a picnic blanket on the living room floor, can turn a simple meal into an adventure.
• Box Forts and Games: Empty moving boxes offer a wealth of entertainment. Encourage children to build a fort, create a tunnel, or draw on them. This not only sparks imagination but also helps in repurposing empty moving boxes effectively.
• Movie Night: If a television or tablet is accessible, a family movie night can be a calming and enjoyable activity. Snuggle up with blankets and their comfort items.
• New Home Story: Create a special 'new home' story or ritual. This could involve looking out the window together, naming the rooms, or simply sharing hopes for the new chapter.
• Establish a Bedtime Routine: Stick as closely as possible to the usual bedtime routine. Reading a familiar story from their 'first night' box in their (partially) set-up bedroom helps bring a sense of normality.

By implementing these strategies, the first night in a new property can transform from a potentially challenging experience into a fun and comforting memory for children, laying a positive foundation for settling in.