As your local moving experts, we’ve put together some tried-and-true strategies to help your kids (and you) settle into your new home.
1. Take a Neighborhood Walk or Bike Ride
A simple walk or bike ride is a great way to start exploring the area. It’s a fun way for your kids to familiarize themselves with their surroundings while building their confidence. Plus, it gives you a chance to identify local spots like playgrounds, cafes or shops.
You can even make a game out of it. Create a scavenger hunt for things like unique houses, fun murals or the nearest ice cream shop. If your children’s school is in the neighborhood, be sure to include it on your route so that your kids can become more familiar with it. By the end, they’ll have a better idea of what lies beyond the front yard.
2. Visit Local Parks and Playgrounds
Kids need space to run, play and burn off energy, and a new park can quickly become their favorite spot. Make visiting a local park one of your first neighborhood activities. It’s a great place for kids to meet new friends and for you to connect with other families. Many parks have family-friendly amenities like swings, climbing structures and open fields for sports. Pack a lunch and make it a picnic date.
Pro Tip: Bring a soccer ball or Frisbee to encourage your kids to interact with other children who may already be playing there.
3. Find Family-Friendly Restaurants and Treat Shops
Exploring the local food scene is a delicious way to get to know your new community. Look for kid-friendly restaurants, especially ones that offer outdoor seating or a play area. Ice cream parlors, bakeries and pizza spots are often great choices where kids can feel at home. You might find a reliable dinner backup for those busy nights or the perfect loaf of bread to make school lunches with.
4. Attend Local Events and Festivals
Every town has its own set of special events, like farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts or seasonal festivals. These events are great opportunities to immerse your kids in the community. Keep an eye on neighborhood bulletin boards or online event calendars to find out what’s happening nearby.
How to Find Local Events:
- Check the community center or local library for event postings.
- Join local social media groups or apps like Nextdoor to stay updated on family-friendly events.
- Ask your neighbors! They often know the best spots for family fun.
5. Get Involved in Community Activities
If your kids are into sports, arts or hobbies like theater, signing them up for local programs can be a great way to help them make friends and feel more at home. Many towns offer youth sports leagues, art classes, theater productions or summer camps.
Bonus Tip: Visit your local library to check out their programs—many libraries host storytimes, craft workshops and book clubs for kids.
6. Help Your Kids Adjust to a New School
One of the biggest challenges for kids during a move is adjusting to a new school. Start by visiting the school together before the first day so they can get familiar with the layout and meet their teachers. If it has a playground, make some time to stop and play. Many schools offer orientation programs for new families—be sure to attend these!
Encourage your child to talk about any fears or excitement they have. It’s important to give them space to express their feelings. This holds especially true for shy kids who may be slower to adjust.
Ways to Help Your Child Adjust to a New School:
- Attend School Events: Whether it’s a back-to-school night or a school play, being involved will help your child feel more connected.
- Meet Other Parents: Introduce yourself to other parents. Kids often feel more comfortable when they know their parents are making connections too.
- Host Afterschool Playdates: Make your house a fun destination for other kids. You’ll help break the ice and promote new connections.
7. Explore Family-Friendly Theaters or Museums
Does your new town have a local theater or children’s museum? These can be wonderful places to explore together. They offer opportunities for both education and entertainment. Family theaters often have weekend shows or movie nights, and museums usually offer special programs geared toward kids.
Cultural Hotspots to Look For:
- Children’s Theaters: Often feature performances just for young audiences.
- Local Museums: Many museums have interactive exhibits and activities specifically designed for kids.
- Movie Theaters: Small, local movie theaters often have special screenings for kids and rerun family favorite films from time-to-time.
8. Find the Nearest Nature Trails and Outdoor Adventures
If your kids love the outdoors, finding the nearest hiking or biking trails is a must. Many neighborhoods have nearby nature reserves or scenic trails that are perfect for a family adventure. Spending time outdoors is a fantastic way to relieve post-move stress and enjoy some quality time together. Bring binoculars and look for birds and wildlife. Give kids a digital camera to take photos of their expedition.
Outdoor Adventures to Try:
- Hiking: Great for kids who love nature and exploring.
- Bike Trails: Many cities have bike paths that are safe for families to enjoy together.
- Skate Parks: If your kids are into rollerblading or skateboarding, find out if there is a designated park.
9. Join a Gym or Health Club
Many gyms and health clubs, like the YMCA, offer activities specifically designed for families. They are a great option for helping your kids stay active and meet new friends while you get time for your own workout. Exploring these options together is a great way to establish a routine in your new community.
Benefits of Joining a Gym with Kids’ Activities:
- Swim Lessons: Many gyms offer swimming classes for kids of all ages. It’s a fantastic way for them to learn new skills and gain confidence in the water while becoming social with other children.
- Youth Sports and Classes: Some gyms have organized sports like soccer or basketball leagues, as well as fitness classes like yoga or dance.
- Family Membership Perks: Look for gyms that offer family memberships, which often include access to kid-friendly amenities like indoor pools, play areas and even supervised childcare.
10. Encourage Kids to Be Part of the Process
Give your kids some control in the moving and exploring process. Whether it’s letting them pick a restaurant to try or allowing them to choose a park for the afternoon, involving them in decisions makes them feel empowered and excited about their new home. For families with multiple kids, make sure that you give each child the opportunity to be the activity leader for the day.
New Neighborhoods, New Fun!
Embrace the changes that come with moving by exploring your new neighborhood together. Find the activities that engage your kids’ interests so that they adjust to their new surroundings sooner. From parks and restaurants to meeting new friends and attending local events, there’s no shortage of ways to make your new town feel like home. Your local Wheaton agent might even have some ideas! Contact us with any questions today.
