Moving with Kids? A Family-Focused Guide for a Smooth Transition

Moving is an adventure, but relocating with children can bring a mix of excitement and challenges. Whether you’re exploring new horizons within Alberta or making a fresh start in the province, thoughtful planning is key for a seamless transition. 

This guide is tailored for families, offering practical tips, insights specific to welcoming communities like St. Paul and Bonnyville, and strategies to ensure your entire family thrives in your new home.

Preparing for the Move: Involving the Kids

Children thrive when they feel involved and empowered. Make your kids active participants in the moving process by tailoring tasks to their age and abilities. 

Younger children can help pack their toys or choose items to donate, while older kids can assist with labelling boxes or researching your new community online. Turn packing into a game or use colorful markers and stickers to inject a sense of fun into the process. 

Empower children by involving them in decision-making whenever possible. Let them choose colours and themes for their new rooms or help arrange furniture. Here’s how to make the move easier for your children:

• Open Communication: Explain why the move is happening and how it will benefit the family. Use age-appropriate language and encourage questions.
• Explore Together: Show them pictures and videos of your new home and community. This helps build excitement and reduces anxiety. Showing them some of the lighter and more fun sides of the community can be important for them to adopt the new lifestyle and location. For example, explore with pictures of the Landing Pad in St. Paul or the Splash Park in Bonnyville. 
• Create a Moving Timeline: Develop a moving schedule that includes important milestones, such as school enrollment and packing days. Display it in a place where everyone can see and follow along. 

Researching the New Area

• Schools: Alberta offers a wide range of educational options. Look into local schools in St. Paul and Bonnyville, including public, Christian, private, and alternative programs.
• Community Amenities: Look into the availability of parks, sports facilities, and family-oriented activities. Knowing what’s available can help your kids adjust faster.

Creating a Moving Timeline

A visual timeline is a powerful tool for keeping everyone organized and reducing stress. As soon as the move is decided, begin open discussions with your children and use a calendar to mark important dates like packing days, the moving day itself, and key milestones like school enrollment. 

Schedule regular family meetings to review progress, address any concerns, and ensure everyone is on the same page. For younger children, use a large calendar or poster with colourful markers or stickers to create a visually appealing timeline that’s easy for them to understand and follow.

Some important timelines parents should be aware of prior to moving include:

• 8 Weeks Before Move: Begin sorting and decluttering your home. Start researching schools and community amenities.
• 6 Weeks Before Move: Notify schools of the move and begin the process of transferring records. Start packing non-essential items.
• 4 Weeks Before Move: Arrange for moving services or a rental truck. Begin packing more essential items.
• 2 Weeks Before Move: Confirm all moving details, including dates and times. Pack a moving day essentials bag for each family member.

Choosing the Right Neighbourhood

Selecting the perfect neighbourhood is key when moving with children. Consider factors like the quality of schools in the area, researching educational options thoroughly, and looking for areas with well-regarded schools and programs that align with your children’s needs and interests. You may want to gather statistics about the average class size or student-teacher ratio in your desired neighbourhoods to gauge the potential for personalized attention.

Think about the availability of family-friendly amenities like parks, playgrounds, sports facilities, and community centers. These spaces offer opportunities for fun, recreation, and making new friends. It might be helpful to find out the number of parks and playgrounds per capita in your target areas to showcase the abundance of outdoor spaces for families.

Finally, prioritize neighbourhoods known for their safety and strong sense of community. Research and include crime statistics or community engagement scores for your target neighbourhoods to highlight their safety and welcoming atmosphere.

In the examples provided below, we’ll compare St. Paul & Bonnyville Alberta, which are quiet rural towns in rural Alberta. In these municipalities, it’s less about which actual neighbourhood and more about choosing the communities themselves that suits your family’s needs. Decision factors are the same when weighing out options in other areas of Alberta, Canada or Internationally. 

School Districts and Education

In the region that Century 21 Poirier Real Estate services, we have two very unique school districts with unique educational offerings, unlike other regions in Canada.

St. Paul, AB Schools & Education:

1. Unique structure: St. Paul Education is the only school division in Alberta that operates both separate (Catholic) and public schools under one board, offering diverse religious, linguistic, and cultural options.
2. Catholic education: Offered in several schools including École Mallaig Community School, École Racette Junior High School, and École St. Paul Elementary School. These schools fully permeate Catholic theology, philosophy, practices and beliefs in all aspects of school life.
3. Francophone education: École du Sommet offers French education from playschool to Grade 12.
4. Post-secondary options: St. Paul has Portage College for adult education and Blue Quills First Nations College offering accredited programs.
5. Diverse programs: St. Paul Education offers traditional classroom learning, outreach programs, and home education options to meet varied student needs.

Bonnyville, AB Schools & Education:

1. Multiple school systems: Education is offered through Northern Lights Public School System, Lakeland Catholic Separate School District, and East Central Francophone Education Region No. 3.
2. Strong Francophone education: École des Beaux-Lacs School focuses on maintaining French identity while also teaching English from the third year.
3. Responsive curriculum: Schools offer both high-level academic studies and a wide range of technical studies.
4. Tech Prep Value-Added Diploma: Offered by Northern Lights School Division, allowing students to supplement academic studies with enhanced career guidance and technical skills.
5. Registered Apprentice Programs (RAP): All three school divisions offer RAP to high school students, allowing them to finish school with a first-year apprenticeship in their chosen trade.

Finding the uniquenesses even in your desired city or neighbourhood’s school district, can make it easier to find how to get your child to settle into the new setting or help determine the best region to move to meet your family’s needs. 

Family-Friendly Amenities

Family-friendly activities and amenities are prevalent in both St. Paul & Bonnyville communities. They offer features that you will keep your family entertained every weekend, winter or summer. 

Some of the amenities in St. Paul include:

• St. Paul Recreation Centre: This multi-purpose facility houses the Aquatic Centre, fitness facilities, and ice rinks (including Clancy Richard Arena and CAP Arena). It serves as the primary hub for community sports and recreational activities.
• St. Paul Golf Course: This 18-hole championship golf course offers lessons, junior camps, a practice range, and an on-site restaurant. It’s a great spot for family outings, combining outdoor activity with dining.
• Lagasse Park: Located at 47th Street and Lakeshore Drive, this beautiful park features a boardwalk along the waterfront, scenic picnic areas, large gazebos, a beach volleyball court, a splash park, and children’s play areas.
• Iron Horse Trail Campground & Staging Area: Part of the historic Iron Horse Trail, this campground offers 82 camping stalls with various amenities. It’s great for families who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and ATV riding.
• St. Paul Museum: This local museum provides educational experiences for families, offering insights into the area’s history and culture.
• St. Paul Public Library: The library offers reading programs and activities for children, making it a valuable resource for family learning and entertainment.

Bonnyville offers a fair bit of family-friendly amenities including:

• Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre (C2): A comprehensive recreational complex featuring two NHL-sized arenas, a Wellness Centre, a leisure pond skating rink, an athletic field house, an indoor running track, a 32 ft. climbing wall, a movie theatre, and an indoor play area. It serves as a hub for community events and activities.
• Bonnyville Swimming Pool: An indoor aquatic facility boasting a 25m main pool, a 3m x 5m teaching pool, a hot tub, and a sauna. It offers a range of swimming programs and activities for all ages.
• Bonnyville Golf and Country Club: This 18-hole championship golf course offers fantastic views of Chatwin Lake and Moose Lake. It features a pro-shop, driving range, lessons, an onsite restaurant, and a licensed lounge.
• Mach 1 Skatepark: Located adjacent to the Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre, this skatepark provides a space for skateboarding enthusiasts of all ages to practice their skills and enjoy outdoor recreation.
• Bonnyville Curling Club: Features four sheets of ice, men’s and women’s locker rooms, a meeting room, a small banquet room, a licensed lounge, and kitchen. It’s open from October to March, offering winter recreational opportunities for families.
• Moose Lake Provincial Park: Located just 15 km west of Bonnyville, this park offers opportunities for water skiing, camping, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and hiking. It’s an excellent spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities and nature.

And that’s just to name a few for each. There are many more activities and happenings to experience locally. 

Nurturing Young Hearts: Understanding the Emotional Impact

Moving can stir up a whirlwind of emotions in children. The anticipation of a new adventure can be exhilarating, yet anxieties about the unknown often surface. It’s critical for parents to recognize and address these feelings to ensure a smoother transition for the whole family.

Children might experience a range of emotions, including anxiety about making new friends, sadness about leaving familiar surroundings, and even anger or frustration over the disruption to their routine. 

Open communication is key. Create a safe space for your children to express their feelings openly. Let them know that it’s perfectly normal to feel a range of emotions about the move. 

Encourage them to ask questions and share their concerns, no matter how big or small. 

If you observe persistent emotional distress or behavioural changes in your child, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a child psychologist or counsellor. 

Professional support can equip your child with coping mechanisms and help them navigate the emotional challenges of relocation.

Understanding Their Fears and Concerns

• Leaving Friends Behind: Reassure your children that they can keep in touch with old friends while making new ones. Consider organizing a farewell party where they can exchange contact details and say goodbye. Ensure to encourage them to stay connected via social media, phone & video calls. 
• Adjusting to a New School: Take your children to visit their new school before the first day. Meeting teachers and seeing the school can help ease their anxiety. New beginnings can bring on both fear and excitement. Be prepared to guide your child with what to expect with changing schools and how to overcome those fears and encourage the excitement and new beginnings.

Establishing & Maintaining Routines: A Sense of Stability

Maintaining familiar routines amidst the chaos of a move offers a much-needed sense of stability and predictability. Stick to regular schedules for bedtimes and mealtimes as much as possible, even during the unpacking and settling-in phase. Continue beloved activities like reading bedtime stories, having family dinners, or engaging in a shared hobby. 

Once you’ve settled into your new home, incorporate fresh elements into your routine, such as exploring your new neighbourhood, visiting local parks, or trying out new activities. Be sure to help with maintaining routines, you pack familiar items in easily accessible boxes both during the move and as one of the first things to be unpacked at your new home. 

Extracurricular Activities: Building Friendships and Confidence

Extracurriculars play a vital role in helping children adjust and thrive. Research local sports teams, dance classes, music lessons, Scouts, Girl Guides, and other youth groups in your new community. These activities foster new friendships, build confidence, and help add structure to their day. We’ve included some examples of this in our region below:

Extra Curricular Activities for Kids in St. Paul

• Sports teams:
  • St. Paul Soccer Association
  • St. Paul Minor Hockey Association
  • St. Paul Figure Skating Club
• Dance classes:
  • École du Sommet (offers dance programs)
• Music lessons:
  • St. Paul Music Centre
• Scouts:
  • 1st St. Paul Scout Group
• Girl Guides:
  • St. Paul Guiding Units (part of Girl Guides of Canada-Alberta)
• Other youth groups:
  • St. Paul Youth Council
  • St. Paul 4-H Club

Extra Curricular Activities for Kids in Bonnyville:

• Sports teams:
  • Bonnyville Minor Hockey Association
  • Bonnyville Soccer Association
  • Bonnyville Figure Skating Club
• Dance classes:
  • Bonnyville Dance Company
• Music lessons:
  • Bonnyville School of Music
• Scouts:
  • Second Bonnyville Scout Group
• Girl Guides:
  • Bonnyville Guiding Units (part of Girl Guides of Canada-Alberta)
• Other youth groups:
  • Bonnyville Youth Club
  • Bonnyville Aboriginal Youth Centre
  • Bonnyville & District 4-H

Packing and Moving Day Tips

Packing and moving day can be chaotic, especially with kids in tow. However, with a bit of organization and creativity, the process can become smoother and even more enjoyable for the whole family. Here’s how to make the most of the moving experience.

Involving Kids in Packing

Children may feel anxious or overwhelmed during the moving process, but involving them can ease the transition and help them feel more in control.

• Make It Fun: Turn packing into an engaging activity. For younger children, create games where they pack items in a certain colour order or group toys together in “families.” Give older kids more autonomy, allowing them to pack their belongings while decorating their boxes with markers, stickers, or drawings. The key is to make the process as interactive as possible, giving children a sense of responsibility.
• Ownership Over Their Space: Allowing children to have a say in how their rooms will look in the new home can make the move feel exciting. Ask them to pick out color schemes or design themes for their new space. This also helps them focus on the future and see the positive aspects of the move.

Packing Essentials for Kids

Moving day can be unpredictable, and having a “go-to” essentials bag for your children will make the process much easier.

• Pack the Necessities: Ensure that your kids have snacks, drinks, and a change of clothes easily accessible. If your moving day involves a long journey, consider packing a small cooler with healthy snacks like fruit, granola bars, and juice boxes to avoid energy slumps.
• Comfort and Entertainment: Familiar toys, books, and a favourite blanket or stuffed animal can help your child feel more comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings. If possible, keep these items on hand rather than packing them away with the rest of your belongings. Entertainment options such as a tablet loaded with their favourite movies or games, along with kids-themed headphones, can help keep your child occupied during longer stretches of downtime.

Moving Day Strategies

The chaos of moving day can be stressful, but with a few pre-planned strategies, you can keep things running smoothly.

• Create a Safe Zone: On moving day, designate a specific area in the house as a “safe zone” for kids. This space should be free from the hustle and bustle of movers and heavy lifting. Set up some toys, colouring books, or even a small tent where younger children can relax while the adults handle the bulk of the work.
• Plan Breaks: Moving day can be exhausting for everyone, especially for kids with shorter attention spans. Plan scheduled breaks throughout the day to allow your children to stretch, play, or even take a short walk around the neighbourhood. These mini-breaks can help reduce crankiness and keep the day running smoothly.
• Get Help If Needed: If possible, consider asking a friend, relative, or babysitter to help watch your children on moving day. Having an extra set of hands can reduce the stress on you and ensure that your kids are being well taken care of while you focus on the move. Alternatively, some families opt to plan a fun day out for their kids, such as catching a movie at the Magic Lantern Elite Theatre in St. Paul or enjoying some outdoor time at the St. Paul Trout Pond, where they can fish or relax by the water, while the bulk of the moving happens.

Settling into the New Home: Making Your New House a Home

Once the chaos of moving day is behind you, it’s time to turn your new house into a comfortable and welcoming space for your family. Helping your children feel at home quickly is key to a smooth transition. One of the best ways to achieve this is by encouraging them to get involved in setting up their new rooms. Letting your kids choose colours, themes, and decorations that reflect their personalities can give them a sense of control and ownership. Even replicating the layout of their old room can provide familiarity and comfort during this adjustment period.

Beyond their bedrooms, maintaining a sense of normalcy is crucial. Consistent routines—such as bedtimes, mealtimes, and daily rituals—will offer stability and help anchor your children in their new environment. Though the surroundings may be different, the predictability of their schedule will provide reassurance.

As you settle in, make an effort to explore the community together. Taking family walks around the neighbourhood is a great way to discover parks, shops, and recreational areas, while also helping your kids acclimate to their new surroundings. It’s also helpful to introduce them to local events and activities, such as library programs, sports leagues, or community fairs, which offer opportunities to meet new friends and integrate into the neighbourhood.

While embracing the new, don’t forget to keep connections with the past. Encouraging your children to stay in touch with old friends through video calls or social media can help them feel less disconnected and give them a sense of continuity during the move.

Tips for Settling In:

• Prioritize Unpacking Kids’ Rooms: Start with their bedrooms so they have a space to retreat to that feels familiar and comfortable.
• Get Them Involved in Decorating: Whether it’s picking out new bedding or deciding where their favorite poster should go, giving your kids a say in their room setup can make the new space feel like their own.

Exploring the New Community:

• Attend Local Events: In communities like St. Paul and Bonnyville, look for family-friendly events such as fairs, sports leagues, and recreational programs. These activities are a fantastic way for children to meet new friends and for families to become part of the community.
• Take Neighborhood Walks: Familiarize your family with the area by going on daily walks, discovering local parks, and visiting nearby amenities. The more your children see and experience the new environment, the quicker it will begin to feel like home.

School Transition: Helping Your Kids Adjust to a New School Environment

Transitioning to a new school is one of the most significant challenges for kids during a move, and ensuring a smooth shift is essential to helping them feel comfortable in their new surroundings. Whether your children are moving to a small community school in St. Paul or Bonnyville, or a larger urban school, taking the right steps early can alleviate anxiety and help your kids settle in quickly.

Enrolling in New Schools

Before your move, begin the process of enrolling your children in their new school as soon as possible.

• Transfer of Records: One of the most important administrative tasks is transferring your children’s academic records from their old school to the new one. Start this process well in advance by contacting your child’s current school and asking them to prepare the necessary documents. Each school and district may have different requirements, so contacting the new school early to understand their deadlines and required paperwork is critical. This is especially important if there are any unique circumstances, such as special education needs, that the new school should be aware of beforehand.
• Meeting Teachers and Staff: Arranging for your children to meet their new teachers, see their classroom, and explore the playground before their first day can help reduce any jitters they may have. This pre-visit can familiarize them with the school layout and give them a chance to see familiar faces on their first day. If possible, introduce them to other staff members, like school counsellors, who can provide extra support during the transition. Even if a physical visit isn’t possible, many schools now offer virtual tours or introductory meetings that can still help your children feel more prepared.

Helping Kids Adjust to a New School

Once the logistical steps are taken care of, focus on helping your kids emotionally and socially adjust to their new school.

• First-Day Tips: The first day at a new school can be nerve-wracking for kids of all ages. If possible, accompany your child to school on their first day. This simple gesture can provide comfort and security. Take a few moments to help them find their locker, navigate the hallways, and get a sense of the school’s layout. Introduce them to other students if the opportunity arises, as this can help break the ice and create early connections. Additionally, try to arrange for a “buddy” system if the school offers one. Pairing your child with a peer who can show them the ropes can make their first few days less overwhelming.
• Extracurricular Activities: Joining extracurricular activities is one of the best ways for kids to make friends and feel more connected to their new school. Whether it’s sports teams, art clubs, or drama groups, these activities provide a space where your child can explore their interests while building social connections. Research local options in St. Paul or Bonnyville that align with your child’s hobbies, whether that’s joining the local hockey team, a music program, or a scouting group. Encouraging them to participate can help create a sense of belonging early on.
• School Resources for New Students: Some schools offer orientation programs, support groups, or counselor-led sessions specifically for new students. If your child is feeling anxious, it’s worth asking the school if they provide any additional resources for easing the transition. These programs can be invaluable for helping children cope with the emotional aspects of moving, particularly for older students who may find the social adjustment more challenging.

Academic Transition: Addressing Gaps and Getting Support

In some cases, there may be differences in curriculum or teaching styles between your child’s old school and their new one, especially if the move is from a different province or country. Helping your children bridge any academic gaps can ensure they don’t fall behind in their new environment.

• Assessing Academic Differences: If your child’s new school follows a different curriculum or teaching method, you may need to assess whether any tutoring or extra help is needed. Have a conversation with the new teachers about potential academic differences and areas where your child might need additional support. Schools in Alberta generally follow a standard provincial curriculum, but differences in school schedules or learning resources might still exist.
• Use of Technology and Online Resources: Many schools now use online platforms for assignments, communication, and grades. Familiarize yourself with these tools early on to stay informed about your child’s progress. It can also help your child feel more in control of their academic responsibilities if they know how to access assignments and communicate with teachers using these platforms.

Legal and Logistical Considerations for Moving to Alberta with Kids

When moving to a new home in Alberta, especially with children, there are several important legal and logistical tasks to handle. Taking care of these details ahead of time can ensure a smooth transition for your family.

Updating Your Address

Moving to a new location means you’ll need to update your address across a variety of institutions:

• Notify Schools and Healthcare Providers: Inform your children’s current schools and healthcare providers about your move, and provide them with your new address. This helps ensure a seamless transition for school records and medical care.
• Government Agencies: Update your information with government agencies like Alberta Health, the Canada Revenue Agency, and Service Canada. This is particularly important if you’re moving from another province or country.
• Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Alberta requires residents to update their driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations when they move. You can do this online or by visiting a local registry office. If you’re moving from another province or country, you may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of residency.
• Alberta Health Care Registration: If you’re moving from another province or country, make sure to register for Alberta’s health care system. This ensures that you and your children are covered under Alberta Health Insurance. You’ll need to provide proof of residency and identity, and it’s recommended to register as soon as possible to avoid any lapse in coverage.

Transferring Medical Records

To maintain continuity of care, make sure to transfer your family’s medical records well in advance of your move:

• Contact Current Providers: Notify your current doctors, dentists, and specialists about your move and request that your medical records be sent to your new healthcare providers. This is especially important for children who may have ongoing health concerns or treatment plans.
• New Providers: Once you’ve settled on a new healthcare provider in Alberta, arrange for the transfer of records so your child’s new doctor has a complete medical history to work from. This step ensures that there are no gaps in treatment or care after your move.

Understanding Local Laws

If you’re moving into a new rental property or buying a home in Alberta, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations that may impact your living situation:

• Tenancy Laws: Alberta has specific regulations that protect both renters and landlords. If you’re renting, make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities, as well as the terms of your lease. This will help avoid any misunderstandings with your landlord and ensure you comply with Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act.
• Bylaws and Zoning Regulations: If you’re purchasing a home, it’s important to research local bylaws and zoning regulations that could impact your property. This includes rules about land use, home improvements, noise restrictions, and more. Being aware of these regulations will help you avoid potential fines or legal issues down the road.

Tips for Moving with Younger vs. Older Kids

When moving with kids, tailoring your approach based on their age can make a big difference in how they handle the transition.

Moving with Toddlers and Preschoolers:

• Safety First: Childproof key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and stairs to ensure your toddler’s safety in the new home.
• Maintain Familiar Routines: Keep mealtimes, naps, and bedtime schedules as consistent as possible. Bring along their favorite toys, blankets, or books to help them adjust.

Moving with School-Aged Kids:

• Encourage Social Connections: While moving may separate your child from friends, set up ways to stay connected through video calls or even meet-ups during school breaks. Encourage participation in community activities, like sports teams or after-school clubs, to help them make new friends.
• Involve Them in Decisions: Let your school-aged kids choose elements of their new room, and get their input on local activities or sports they may want to try in the new area.

Moving with Teens:

• Respect Their Independence: Teens often find moving particularly disruptive, as they are focused on their social circles and personal independence. Give them space to adjust, but make sure they’re involved in decisions that impact them, such as decorating their room or exploring local hangouts.
• Encourage Exploration: Encourage teens to explore community activities that fit their interests, like local art scenes, skateparks, or café meetups. This can help them find a sense of belonging more quickly.

Local Resources and Support Systems

When moving to a new community in Alberta, utilizing local resources can ease the transition and provide support for both children and parents.

Community Centers

• Community centers in towns like St. Paul and Bonnyville often offer a wide range of programs, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and parenting workshops. These programs are great opportunities for children to meet new friends and for the entire family to integrate into the community.

Provincial Resources

• Alberta Child Care Subsidy: This program provides financial assistance to eligible families to help cover the costs of child care, making it easier for parents to return to work or continue their education.
• Family Support for Children with Disabilities: This service offers support and resources for families with children who have special needs, ensuring they have the necessary care and access to community services.

Federal Resources

• Canada Child Benefit (CCB): The CCB offers financial assistance to families raising children under the age of 18, helping with the costs of raising a family.
• Tax Deductions for Moving Expenses: If your move is work-related, you may be eligible for tax deductions for moving expenses, which can help offset the costs associated with relocation.

Moving with Children Doesn’t Have to be Overwhelming

Moving with children can seem daunting, but with the right strategies and support, it can be an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and embrace a fresh start. By involving your children in the process, maintaining familiar routines, and exploring your new community together, your family can turn a potentially stressful event into a positive experience.

If you’re moving to St. Paul, Bonnyville, or anywhere in the Lakeland area, Century 21 Poirier is here to assist you every step of the way. Our experienced team can guide you through the home-buying process and provide local insights to help your family settle in quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re looking for a home in a quiet neighbourhood or need advice on local amenities, we’re ready to help. Contact us today to make your family’s move as smooth & stress-free as possible and begin your next chapter with confidence.