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The Ups and Downs of Raising Kids in a Small Town
For the first chunk of our parenting adventure, my partner and I navigated the bustling streets of major cities—Los Angeles and New York, to be specific. When our eldest turned 14 and our youngest was just 5, we made the leap to a quaint college town with a population of around 30,000, where the majority are students, surrounded by sprawling farmland. The nearest sizable city is a good hour and a half away. Though we’re not in a one-stoplight town, the shift from a metropolis is undeniable.
I was filled with both excitement and apprehension about this transition. I grew up in a small town, while my partner hailed from a place of just 8,000 residents. Honestly, my small-town experiences had me leaning toward the negatives. But not all small towns are alike, and this one has a lot more to offer than I anticipated. After two years here, I’ve uncovered some gems about raising kids in this environment, along with a few challenges I’d tweak if I could.
The Benefits of Raising Kids in a Small Town:
Safety
It was a bit surreal to settle in a town where friends casually leave their doors unlocked. I mean, who does that? Some even leave their car keys in plain sight. While trouble can be found everywhere, our town boasts a remarkably low crime rate, especially compared to even the safer suburbs of New York. Honestly, it feels like a luxury.
Traffic
I had no idea how much our lives revolved around traffic in the big city. Now, we can drive from one end of town to the other in a mere 10 minutes. There’s another nearby town about 15 minutes away for more shopping and dining options, and a 30-minute drive to a Costco. Traffic here? It’s more like a brief rush of 15 minutes, where you might miss a green light. What a relief not to worry about gridlock!
Community
While we had plenty of friends in the city, they were often scattered across various neighborhoods. In contrast, our small town offers a tight-knit community feel. Even with the college crowd, there’s a warm, engaging atmosphere that fosters connection. It’s lovely to know that if you need help, someone in town probably knows just the right person.
Simplicity
Initially, I was anxious about leaving behind the endless array of activities that city life promised. However, I’ve learned that there’s a refreshing quality in having fewer options. With fewer museums, parks, and extracurricular activities to choose from, life feels less complicated. Less decision fatigue means more enjoyable outings—what a nice change!
The Drawbacks of Raising Kids in a Small Town:
Lack of Diversity
While we live in a university town that provides some level of cultural diversity, it’s still not on par with the rich tapestry found in larger cities. Without the college, our town would likely be quite homogeneous. I want my children to grow up with friends from various backgrounds, so we actively seek out cultural experiences at the university that broaden their worldviews.
Fewer Opportunities
Sure, having fewer choices can simplify life, but it’s tough when my kids show interest in activities that our town just doesn’t offer. While we can usually find what they’re looking for, some things are just not available. Want to try trapeze? Sorry, kiddo. How about a local opera? That’s a 90-minute trek. Major concerts? Five hours away.
Missing the City
There’s an undeniable charm about city life. While I don’t miss the congestion and crowds, I sometimes long for the sight of the skyline shimmering at night. I miss the thrill of exploring urban landscapes and the vibrant energy that pulses through city streets. Taking the kids on a train ride into the city was always a highlight.
Less Complexity
While simplicity has its merits, complexity also plays a crucial role in children’s development. Sometimes I think about what our kids are missing—like learning to navigate public transport, experiencing world-class arts, or understanding economic disparities. It makes me wonder if we’re doing them a disservice by distancing them from the bustling life of the city.
Like everything else, there are trade-offs. Finding a place that ticks every box is almost impossible; every town and city has its own set of pros and cons. I’m grateful to have experienced both the excitement of urban life and the tranquility of a small town, giving us insights into what our kids gain and what they miss out on.
Neither option is inherently better. Regardless of where we reside, we can ensure our children thrive in their surroundings. We can teach them to prosper wherever they are and expose them to diverse lifestyles, nurturing the skills they’ll need for the future. Whether they end up in a bustling city or a cozy town, we can create a loving home that will always welcome them back.
For more tips on family life and parenting, check out our other blog posts, like this one on home insemination techniques. If you’re looking for ways to boost fertility, Make a Mom provides great resources. And for more information about pregnancy methods, the NHS is an excellent place to start.