How to Welcome a New Neighbor (and Possibly Make a New Friend)

Moving really is no fun at all. Most people can relate to how unpleasant any move can be. So next time when you see a new neighbor moving in perhaps you can give them a friendly hand. Sometimes just going over to say "hi, welcome to the neighborhood" can be enough to make the person feel less alienated in their new home. If you want to go the extra mile to make your new neighbor feel welcome, the following items can really help a person who is new in the neighborhood out. Who knows, you may even make a new friend if you are looking for new contacts in the area.

Emergency Card

One way to help a neighbor out is by creating a list of all the must-know numbers we all need. Numbers to the fire department, police, animal control, local pizza place, etc. You can even put your neighbor on there as a friendly reminder that you are available. 

Gift Card

When most people move, they are going to be spending at least a couple meals ordering a carry out. If you don't want to make them a meal yourself then you can just get them a gift card to a restaurant in the area. This can also be a good chance to support any local businesses in the areas that offer gift cards. 

Play-Date or Babysitting? 

Moving when you have kids can be a real big challenge. If you have kids, it can be a great idea to offer a play date or to baby-sit for even just a couple hours. Finding distractions for kids can be a challenge while moving, so just about any parent would appreciate a little break from their little one when they are unpacking. Don't be offended if they say no, some people are weird about allowing "strangers" watch their kids. 

Invite Over for Dinner 

If you really want to make someone welcome, why not welcome them into your own home? This can give you a chance to get to know your neighbors. This also gives the new neighbors a fun social distraction and a free meal, and that is something most of us would appreciate when going through the atrocities of a move. 

Baked Goods 

Yummy snacks of any sorts can be a good option as a gift. Fruit or baked goods are especially a good idea to help your neighbor out. Most people don't care if the baked goods are from your kitchen or the local bakery, so if you suck at baking or don't have time, buying something can be a great option.