How do I explain moving to a toddler?

In clear, simple words, and show it as well as say it. Children's Minnesota suggests telling the move as a story or acting it out with toy trucks, and explaining as you pack that their toys are coming too.

How do I help my toddler adjust to a new house?

Set up their room before the rest of the house, arrange it like the old one if you can, and keep meals and bedtime on the usual schedule.

Does moving affect a toddler?

Children under 6 have a limited capacity to understand the changes a move brings, Children's Minnesota notes, so simple explanations and steady routines matter most. If you're still worried about how your child is settling in, a family therapist can help.

Is there a moving book or social story starring my child?

Tella makes a story instead of a printed book. It stars your child, their new home and the friends they'll stay in touch with, and it's ready the same day on your phone, tablet or TV.

All big changes

How to prepare your toddler for a move

Explain it early and simply, show them what's coming, and set up their room first in the new house.

Custom story for Tamal

Tamal is moving across the country, and finds out that goodbye doesn't have to mean forever.

The Dinosaur in the Backpack

Story created for Tamal

Children under 6 have a limited capacity to understand the changes a move brings, says Children's Minnesota, so keep explanations clear and simple. It suggests explaining the move with a story or acting it out with toy trucks and furniture, telling your child as you pack their toys that they aren't being thrown away, and visiting the new home before moving day if you can.

In the new house, set up your child's room before the rest, and keep meals and bedtime on the usual schedule.

A social story is one way to tell it: a short story where your child packs, says goodbye and finds their new room. That's why Tella is built so the story stars your child, with their own room, their favorite toy and the friends they'll miss.

A moving social story starring your child

Here's how Tamal's story goes.

Tamal packs Dinosaur last, so he comes along every step.
One last secret handshake with his best friend, Clint.
In the new house, Tamal runs from room to room with Dinosaur.
A video call, and there's Clint, still his best friend.

Watch Tamal’s whole story

Questions parents ask

How do I explain moving to a toddler?: In clear, simple words, and show it as well as say it. Children's Minnesota suggests telling the move as a story or acting it out with toy trucks, and explaining as you pack that their toys are coming too.
How do I help my toddler adjust to a new house?: Set up their room before the rest of the house, arrange it like the old one if you can, and keep meals and bedtime on the usual schedule.
Does moving affect a toddler?: Children under 6 have a limited capacity to understand the changes a move brings, Children's Minnesota notes, so simple explanations and steady routines matter most. If you're still worried about how your child is settling in, a family therapist can help.
Is there a moving book or social story starring my child?: Tella makes a story instead of a printed book. It stars your child, their new home and the friends they'll stay in touch with, and it's ready the same day on your phone, tablet or TV.

Questions parents ask about Tella

Is it more screen time?: You watch it together, and it's about a real day in your child's life. No feed, and every story has an ending.
Is it safe?: No photo needed. See what we keep and who sees it.
Is it really about my child?: Every scene shows your child and your family, not a name dropped into a template.
What does it cost?: Your first story is free. No card needed.
Why not just ask ChatGPT?: See how a Tella story compares.

Updated October 30, 2026.

Made by parents for kids.

Learn more about us.

Gift TellaWhat’s NewFAQSpecial needs storiesTella vs ChatGPTTella vs VivikidsTerms of ServicePrivacy PolicyChildren’s Privacy

Tella Stories: personalized stories for kids