Boerman Moving & Storage

Moving with Kids in the Summer: A Personal Perspective from Jina Boerman

At Boerman Moving & Storage, we’ve helped thousands of families relocate over the years. But beyond the logistics, boxes, and trucks, there’s something even more important happening during a move, especially for kids.

As someone who moved growing up due to my dad’s job relocation, I’ve experienced firsthand what it feels like to be the “new kid.” And if there’s one thing I can say with confidence, it’s this: moving in the summer can make all the difference.

Here’s why and how you can help your kids adjust, settle in, and even thrive in a new place.

1) Summer gives kids time to build friendships before school starts
One of the biggest advantages of a summer move is time.

Time to:

  • Explore a new neighborhood

  • Meet other kids

  • Get comfortable in a new environment

I still remember meeting my neighbor Tiffany and another friend down the street, Kristin, shortly after we moved. Those early friendships mattered more than I realized at the time. By the time the first day of school rolled around, I wasn’t walking in alone.

That sense of familiarity made a huge difference.

2) Getting involved early helps kids feel connected
Summer is the perfect opportunity to plug kids into activities before school even begins.

Consider:

  • Park district programs

  • Summer camps

  • Sports teams

  • Community events

These environments make it easier for kids to meet others naturally, without the pressure of a classroom setting.

3) Look ahead to school-year activities
Another helpful step is getting familiar with what your child’s new school offers before the year starts.

You can:

  • Research clubs, sports, and extracurriculars

  • Sign up early when possible

  • Talk through options with your child to build excitement

Walking into a new school is a lot less intimidating when your child already knows where they might fit in.

4) Familiar faces make the first day easier
The first day at a new school can feel overwhelming.

But when kids already recognize a few faces, whether from the neighborhood or summer activities, it changes everything.

It turns:

  • Anxiety into confidence

  • Uncertainty into comfort

  • A scary first day into a manageable one

That’s exactly what those early friendships did for me.

5) The connections they make can last a lifetime
Looking back, I’m incredibly thankful for the friendships I formed when I switched schools in elementary.

What started as meeting kids down the street turned into lifelong friendships. Some of those same people are still part of my life today.

It’s a reminder that while moving can feel like a big disruption, it can also open the door to meaningful, lasting relationships.

At Boerman Moving & Storage, we know moving isn’t just about getting from one home to another. It’s about helping families transition into a new chapter, and that includes making sure kids feel comfortable, supported, and excited about what’s ahead.

Planning a summer move for your family? We’re here to help every step of the way.

From packing and planning to moving day and beyond, our team is committed to making your transition as smooth as possible, for you and your kids.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about moving boxes. It’s about helping families feel at home, wherever they land.