Moving can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially when kids are involved. Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or a new chapter in Bar Harbor, Maine, planning ahead can make the experience smoother for everyone. From adjusting to a new school to making new friends, kids face big changes during a move, and how you prepare can make all the difference.
Here are seven practical tips to help families move with confidence while keeping children supported, engaged, and excited about their new home.
1. Talk About the Move Early
One of the most effective ways to help your children adjust is to involve them in the process from the beginning. Share the news early and explain why the move is happening in a way that suits their age and understanding. Let them ask questions and express any worries they may have.
Framing the move in a positive light helps reduce anxiety. Emphasize the benefits of the new home—whether it's more space, proximity to the ocean, or living closer to family. If you're moving to Bar Harbor, you can also mention the natural beauty, wildlife, and access to Acadia National Park as things to look forward to.
2. Keep Routines as Normal as Possible
Children thrive on consistency, and moving can interrupt familiar schedules. Try to maintain daily routines, such as mealtimes, bedtimes, and weekend rituals, before, during, and after the move. Keeping these parts of life predictable provides comfort when other things feel uncertain.
In the midst of packing and planning, carve out time for regular family activities. Even a walk along the Shore Path or an afternoon at Agamont Park (once you're in Bar Harbor) can help keep everyone grounded.
3. Involve Kids in the Moving Process
When children feel involved, they’re more likely to be cooperative and emotionally prepared. Depending on their age, give them age-appropriate tasks like:
- Packing their toys or labeling boxes
- Choosing paint colors for their new room
- Creating a “moving day” bag with their favorite snacks and games
4. Visit the New Area (If Possible)
If your schedule allows, visit Bar Harbor before the official move. Walk through your new neighborhood, drive by the school, and stop at local spots like the Abbe Museum or a community ice cream shop. Even one visit can help kids form early connections with their new town.
If an in-person visit isn't feasible, use online maps, virtual tours, or local websites to show them what to expect. Exploring Acadia's trails, beaches, and wildlife online can make Bar Harbor feel more familiar and exciting before arrival.
5. Say Goodbye the Right Way
Moving often means leaving behind friends, teachers, and favorite places. A proper goodbye helps kids gain closure. Plan a farewell get-together, visit their favorite local spots one last time, and create memory books or photo albums with schoolmates and neighbors.
Let them exchange contact information with friends, and reassure them that staying in touch is possible—even from a distance. With younger kids, a small goodbye ritual like leaving a note in their old room or planting a flower in the yard can give a sense of completion.
6. Make the First Week in the New Home Special
The initial days in your new home set the tone for your family's transition. Focus less on unpacking everything and more on creating a sense of belonging.
Some ideas to make the first week memorable:
- Set up your child’s room first so they feel settled quickly
- Take a walk as a family to explore the neighborhood
- Enjoy a local meal together or try a treat from a nearby bakery
- Plan a fun outing to a park, beach, or family-friendly trail in Acadia
7. Connect with the Community
Getting involved in the community helps your children build social ties and settle in more easily. Once you're in Bar Harbor, look for local family programs, classes, or clubs. The Jesup Memorial Library often hosts children’s story hours and seasonal events. Community centers, churches, and parks are also great places to meet other families.
If your child is school-aged, talk with teachers and staff about ways to support the transition. Consider enrolling them in sports, art classes, or local enrichment programs to help them feel connected.
Encouraging these early relationships creates a sense of stability and belonging, both for your child and your entire family.
Connect with Steve Shelton
Relocating with kids comes with unique challenges—and that’s where Steve Shelton can help. As a trusted real estate agent serving the Bar Harbor area, Steve understands what families need when making a major move. From identifying neighborhoods with the right fit to helping you find a home that supports your family’s lifestyle, Steve is committed to making the transition as smooth as possible.
Reach out to Steve Shelton today to learn more about moving to Bar Harbor with your family. With personalized guidance, local insight, and dedicated service, Steve helps families navigate every step of the process—so you can focus on creating a fresh start together.
