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Step 1
Introduce yourself. If you're the new neighbor, it is perfectly fine to make the first move. Sometimes people are reluctant to visit others unannounced because they are afraid they will be in the way. Keep your visit brief, and to the point. Take baked goodies if you can- nothing says "welcome" like a warm plate of brownies!
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Step 2
Invite the neighbors over. In fact, invite several neighbors over, so the new family can meet more people on the street. This will give old neighbors a chance to reconnect. If the people on your street haven't been the type to get together, this CAN be changed! If you're longing for that kind of neighborly friendship, it's never too late to change that dynamic. Start with the new neighbors.
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Step 3
Offer to help out once in awhile. If they're going out of town, offer to keep their mail until they return. If it snows, why not shovel at least part of their sidewalk too, especially if you have a snowblower!
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Step 4
Be respectful of their space. Unless they offer their permission (without you asking), do not allow your children to play in their yard. Never allow your pets on their property, either, and especially never poop! Even if you intend to pick it up when they're done, it is a sign of disrespect and there's always the chance you might miss some. Take your dog to a park or keep them in your own yard.
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Step 5
Don't gossip. When the weather is nice outside, it is easy to gather at the mailbox/corner/driveway and dish about the neighbors. Keep conversations about your own families, and your own business.
Comments
surly-mac said
on 3/14/2009 How to be a good neighbor done to a "T" - great advice that would go a long way to improving any neighborhood. Thanks for a good article.