How to Live in a Small Town With Children

Smaller towns expose your children to the wonder of nature.

Small, rural towns appeal to many young families who value community and safety. Living there can be an opportunity to raise children in a simple, low-stress environment. You forfeit some of the cultural activities of metropolitan areas, but because small-town living can be cheaper, you can travel on vacation to cities. Your life in a small town with children is limited only by your ambition to raise well-rounded, self-confident individuals who can become successful adults no matter where they live.

Instructions

1. Spread out. Housing is generally cheaper in a small town than in cities, which gives your young family room to grow. Allow your children their own space, which gives them the opportunity for privacy and self-expression, but also teaches them responsibility in maintaining the space.

2. Get to know your neighbors. Small-town communities are close-knit, which benefits you as a parent. You'll know the parents of your children's classmates, so you can feel secure that they are properly supervised when they're at their friends' houses.

3. Attend special events in your town. Holidays can take on a grand scale when the whole community participates, such as church productions, parades, festivals and fairs. This helps your children feel connected to something bigger than themselves.

4. Embrace your natural surroundings. Ditch the television and get active outdoors on a regular basis. You can also grow a garden, which provides healthful food and gives your children a firm foundation of healthful habits.

5. Augment your children's education through books, travel and the Internet so they learn about the world outside their small town. Help them learn about other languages and cultures. Allow your children to pursue their passion no matter what it is.

6. Teach your children from an early age that boredom is a choice. Help them learn to make their own fun, rather than have it handed to them through television or video games. They can build a tree house or swing set, make up games or camp out overnight in your back yard. You never know when a new hobby might inspire your child to a lifetime career.

References

• "Businessweek"; The Best Places to Raise Your Kids; Prashant Gopal; November 2008
• TC Palm; Small Town Living, a "Good Thing" for Kids; Bonnie Slade; June 2009
• Indiana Parenting: Small Town Life
• Baby Zone; Raising Happy Kids in the Country; Carolina Fernandez
• Education; Easy Activities for Getting Kids Outdoors; George Ambrose