We’re 11 days away from the movers packing us out—and while I’m excited (and yes, mildly stressed), my kids are a totally different story. This morning, I heard muffled sobs and found my oldest clutching our iPad, watching the end-of-year video his 4th-grade teacher had just posted..
“I don’t want to move, mom.” he choked out, not bothering to wipe his tears away.
We’ve known about this PCS since February, so I thought the shock would have worn off by now. But watching him mourn his school and friends broke my heart—and for a moment I seriously wondered if we were doing the right thing. Even if I wanted to postpone, the orders were set, our current home is sold, and our forever home is already waiting on the other side of the country.
I held him tight, wiped his tears, and promised two things: we’ll make a “see-you-later” farewell party, and we’ll find ways to keep him close to his friends.
Through it all, we lean on faith:
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 & “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” —Matthew 11:28
If you’re moving with kids (especially if you’re in the military), you know how quickly stress and emotions can spiral. After three PCS with our children, here are six strategies that help our family hold onto peace—even in the chaos of packing boxes.
1. Talk About the Move Early—and Often
- Be proactive. We told our kids back in February, then reminded them regularly and try to keep the tone positive.
- Validate their feelings. “I know you’ll miss your friends…and that sadness feels hard,” I said, remembering Dr. Laura’s words. Acknowledging his loss helped him feel heard.
2. Frame the Change with Real Hope
- Share concrete positives. “Your new school is really close, and they have a playground you’re going to love!”
- Lean on Scripture. These verses remind our kids—and us—that God sees our sadness but also holds our future: “The Lord will guide you always…in a sun-scorched land…strengthen your frame.” —Isaiah 58:11
3. Keep Routines Grounded
- Hold onto predictability. Even on moving days, we stick to bedtime rituals, morning devotions, and mealtimes.
- Offer small anchors. A nightly story, Friday pizza night, a Sunday family walk, or a favorite snack can bring calm in the storm.
4. Throw a “See-You-Later” Party
- Hails & Farewells: In the military, we honor departures with a gathering. It gives kids closure—and something fun to look forward to.
- Make it special: A backyard picnic, a slideshow of memories, or a group craft to swap addresses.
5. Help Them Stay Connected
- Pen-pal system: I sent each child to school with a small notebook and my phone number. Their friends wrote down parent contact info so we can set up letters or video calls.
- Schedule playdates: Virtual or in-person before “go time.” Familiar faces in the screen can soothe separation anxiety
6. Give Kids Ownership of the Process
- Decorate their moving boxes: We let our kids personalize the cartons with stickers and drawings—then loaded theirs last so they’re first off the truck.
- Room choices: Let them pick paint colors or bedding—small decisions that give big ownership.
- Gentle decluttering: “Here’s a box for your favorite things; here’s one for donations.” No forced purges—just guided choices.
Wrapping Up & Holding Fast to Peace
Moves can stretch us thin—emotionally, physically, spiritually. But even in the busiest season, Jesus offers rest:
“Come to me, all you who are weary… and I will give you rest.” —Matthew 11:28
This is just as much as a reminder to me as it is for you. Lean into Him. Hold tight to Scripture. Remember, we’re not just moving houses—we’re planting new roots with God at the center. One box, one hug, and one prayer at a time.
Thank you for gathering around my hearth this week. I hope you’ve learned something of value and I would love to hear your tips.
