What to Do When You’re the New Family on the Block
Today we’re going to talk about what to do when you’re the new family on the block. Moving into a new neighborhood can be pretty daunting. You don’t know who the neighbors are or what they’re like and you’re not sure how you and your family will fit in. Not only that but actually finding an opportunity to introduce yourself can be quite difficult now that we all live such busy lives.
However, as well as packing boxes and looking for a removalist, when you’re preparing to move to a new place, it is also worth thinking about how you will get to know the neighbors. You see when you know the neighbors, it is easier for you and your kids to settle in and start to feel comfortable, which is exactly what you want when you move to a new place.
To get you started, here are a few things you could do to get to know the neighbors:
Spend More Time Outdoors
It’s obvious, but the more time you spend outdoors at your new place, the more likely it is you’ll come across your neighbors. Of course, this only works if you hang out in outdoor areas where you’ll be able to interact. So, instead of the backyard, hang out in the front yard, or sit on your porch or balcony in the evening. Chances are, you’ll see a lot of people passing, and then all you have to do is say hello to get the conversation started. Do this every chance you get, from the second the removal van rolls away, and you’ll make lots of new friends and acquaintances in no time at all.
Go to the Park
It’s important that your kids make new friends as soon as possible in a new place. Lonely kids can struggle at school and are often targets for bullies, which is the last thing they need when they’ve already been through a big change! Luckily, most neighborhoods have at least one local park, which if you take the kids there regularly, will help them to make lots of new friends pretty quickly.
Do Something Nice
If you’re serious about integrating into your new community and making lots of firm friends, a good tactic is to do something nice for at least one neighbor once a week. This could be as simple as baking a pie and taking it to your nearest neighbor or offering to prune the garden of an elderly person living nearby; it doesn’t matter as long as you do something that is sure to be well-received! Pretty soon, you’ll be everyone’s favorite neighborhood family!
Host a Party
Of course, the most effective way to introduce yourself to a lot of people in one fell swoop is by hosting your own block party. This could be a cook-out, fancy garden party, or cocktail event – all that matters is that you get people together and give them a good time.
Be Good Neighbors
Of course, the most important thing you can do to make friends and keep your new neighbors onside is to be good neighbors. Keep the noise down, don’t park across your neighbor’s drive, and generally do what you can to look after the place and you will be fine.
