Children’s books can go a long way in talking about the topic of moving and what to expect during/after the move. Here are 11 favorite children’s books about moving you’ll want to check out.
Our family recently made a huge cross-country move (Kentucky to Washington). Some of our kids are excited about the new “adventure,” but others were devastated about leaving the only home they remember (our oldest was 3 when we moved to Kentucky). And so I’ve tried to be extra sensitive about talking, reading, and purposefully planning activities to help the transition go a little smoother.
Children’s books can go a long way in talking about the topic of moving and what to expect during/after the move. They’re always my go-to, especially when I’m not sure how to explain something. Books just have that magical power to teach without seeming to be teaching! 😉
11 Favorite Children’s Books about Moving
Build Me a Home by Emily Bannister, illustrated by Ana Sanfelippo
Actually, this one isn’t EXACTLY about moving. . . but I had to include it first on the list because it’s about different kinds of homes . . . an important consideration when moving. Plus, I love it!
The vintage-style illustrated story is SO beautiful as it goes through descriptions of different kinds of homes — ending with the “best” kind of home (the one we live in together!). It was a super cute story for chatting about “what makes a house a home” and how the most important “feature” in our new house will be that we’ll be in it together.
After reading this book, we had fun “building” homes with a printable craft template. 
Alexander, Who’s Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move by Judith Viorst and Ray Cruz, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
I’m sure you know Alexander from his no-good, very bad day! Now things are getting WORSE because Alexander’s family is moving. But Alexander is NOT — (Do you hear him? He means it!) — going to move or leave behind his special things, people, and places. If your kids feel resistant to moving, they’ll love this hilarious story. And even if they aren’t moving — they’ll love this story!
Monsters on the Move by Zanna Davidson, illustrated by Melanie Williamson
Billy’s family is moving and everything is changing – new bedroom, new neighbors, new school. But at least he’s got his Mini Monsters to go with him . . . or so he thinks. Even though he has packed them carefully in the moving truck, the Mini Monsters get LOST in the move. Will they find their way back to Billy? This graphic-novel-style beginning chapter book is one in the series of stories about Billy’s adventures with his Mini Monsters.
A Kiss Goodbye by Audrey Penn, illustrated by Barbara Leonard Gibson
Chester Raccoon is from the popular Kissing Hand books! His family is moving and as you can imagine, Chester is upset about leaving the forest he knows and loves. But as he goes around to say goodbye to each special tree, he begins to realize the most important part of his life is his family and as long as he is with them — he is home.
Bad Bye, Good Bye by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Jonathan Bean
Everything is bad. The moving guys are bad, the boxes are bad, the goodbyes (make that “bad byes”) to friends, and especially the long long car ride to the new house. Change is hard, and sometimes goodbyes can feel like “bad byes.” But new houses/towns can also bring surprises that can turn things around. This book is perfect for moving day or other difficult transitions.
Ira Says Goodbye by Bernard Waber
This book takes a different perspective, as the one moving in this story is not the main character (Ira) — but his best friend, Reggie. Ira is heartbroken and upset that Reggie doesn’t seem care about leaving Ira behind. But when the big moving day arrives, it turns out that Reggie is just as sad as Ira about saying goodbye.
Yard Sale by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Lauren Castillo
Almost everything Callie’s family owns is spread out in their front yard—their furniture, their potted flowers, even Callie’s bike. Their new place is “small but nice,” Mom says. And most of their things won’t fit, so they are having a yard sale. This sweet story sensitively addresses parting with your possessions and leaving a home and neighborhood you love. And teaches that “home” is about family, not just the things inside. This one was SO good for us as we too, had a yard sale and downgraded to a smaller home with less “stuff.”
The Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day by Stan and Jan Berenstain
Mama, Papa, and Brother Bear pack up, say heartfelt goodbyes to friends, and move from the mountains and into their beloved tree house down the sunny dirt road. Come see where it all began in this classic moving story.
Boomer’s Big Day by Constance W. McGeorge, illustrated by Mary Whyte
Told from the perspective of the family pet — Boomer is confused when he can’t get anyone to pay attention to him. He wants to go for a walk, but the humans are packing all the things into boxes. There’s definitely something unusual going on! The simple story charmingly shows Boomer’s anxiety, concern, and then ultimate delight on this moving day.
Moving House by Anne Civardi and Michelle Bates, illustrated by Stephen Cartwright
The Sparks family discover that moving to a new house is hard work! They must pack up all their things into a truck and then unpack it again! But Sam and Sophie are excited to meet new people and have new rooms. This story is sweet and simple. Many reviewers have noted that it doesn’t focus on the negative or “scary” part of moving, instead shows the process of moving to a new house.
My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary, Big Move by Lori Attanasio Woodring Ph.D.
This write-in workbook for kids ages 5-11 goes step-by-step through the moving process. The activities were designed to help kids understand change, develop strategies for managing their emotions, find ways to say goodbye, learn tips for making new friends, and more.
Moving is an emotional, uncertain time for children. I hope a few of these children’s books about moving will help you discuss the tough topic of moving, and help your kids better understand what to expect during the transition. For more ideas on moving with kids, be sure to check out this post.
Do you have favorite children’s books about moving? Please share in the comments!
We just bought “Where’s Home, Daddy Bear?”