When you’re moving your family to a new town, city, or even state, there’s a lot to keep in mind. Most of the preparation focuses around logistics, including important tasks like packing up all of your belongings and finding a new place to live. Once you’re settled in your new home, the next step is to make connections in your new location. For families with small children, searching for the best preschool is also atop the list of settling into a new community.
As The Gardner School has grown during the last 15 years, adding preschools in Nashville, D.C., Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus (OH), Denver, Louisville, and Minneapolis, we definitely understand what it’s like to become part of a new community. Here are a few tips to help you get settled in a new location.
1. Seek out social groups that foster community.
If you’re looking for ways to connect with others and meet new people in a new city or town, social groups are a great way to build community. Whether it’s an in-person group or a virtual community, there are numerous ways to connect with families who are in a similar place in life through anything from a sports club, a church or religious community, a gym, mommy blogger groups, online book clubs, and more.
2. Pick up a new hobby.
There’s no better way to meet others than by learning a new skill. You can find classes at a local community center or even through websites such as Meetup or Eventbrite. You may also want to consider an activity that keeps you active or gets you outside. Hiking, cycling, or rock climbing can introduce you to new groups of potential friends. Being a beginner can instantly increase your interactions with others, as people love to give tips and pointers to those just starting out. Hobbies that engage your children expand those social circles for your family even more.
3. Ask for advice from others.
If you’re curious about your new location, don’t be afraid to ask! People love to share the hidden gems or best-kept secrets about their hometown. Just by asking a few simple questions, you may be able to learn where the best coffee shops and restaurants are, which preschools are preferred, and where to shop for everything from groceries to furniture! Luckily, there are multiple ways to get the inside scoop. Facebook community groups or apps like Nextdoor are full of helpful neighbors. Introduce yourself and ask your burning questions. You may be surprised by how many helpful responses you receive.
4. Carefully consider the childcare you choose.
When they’re young, kids can get very attached to certain places, spaces, and routines. The upheaval involved in moving can be disorienting and unsettling, especially for little ones under 6 years old. Finding a warm, supportive environment for their daily care is imperative to their successful adjustment to a new situation. Look for a preschool with compassionate caretakers, bright, colorful spaces, and highly-engaged children. The best preschools will welcome your child and your family with open arms and bring you into their school community.
5. Volunteer with a local organization.
When you give of yourself, you get so much back in return. They key to successful volunteerism is choosing something that you feel personally invested in. If you want to support the natural world, take a few shifts at a community garden or nature preserve. Maybe there’s an illness you want to see eradicated. Local chapters of nonprofit organizations always need fundraising support. If there’s a social cause you’re passionate about or a group you want to elevate, local advocacy and activism can connect you with others who share the same values.
New to Your Community? Schedule a Tour with Us!
As you’re making connections in your new hometown, The Gardner School can support your child’s adjustment as well. We’re woven into the fabric of so many local communities, and we offer engaging activities, social opportunities, and hands-on learning for little ones. To learn why parents choose The Gardner School for their children to grow and learn, contact us to learn more or to schedule a virtual tour.