print view

Give your preschool child a head start for school.

Many of us live in areas where we never really get a chance to get to know our neighbors. It just doesn’t seem to be a way of life anymore. With all we have going on and things we must do we just don’t take the time to stand in the yard and talk over the fence. Our children many times don’t even have a chance to meet the children in our neighborhoods, let alone any of the adults. One way to get to know your neighbors is with a neighborhood hayride.

Begin by finding a large enough wagon for at least 25 to 30 people and possibly a tractor or large pickup truck to pull your wagon. Many farmers are willing to rent out one of their wagons and/or tractors if you need them. You may also find that if you start approaching your neighbors with this idea they will know someone who has a wagon and a pickup that you can use. Also don’t forget the hay. Many farmers sell hay or a lot of stores will sell bundles of hay for just this purpose.

Talk with your neighbors and have your children talk to any of their friends in the neighborhood. This will give you an idea of just how many people are interested in the hayride. In the beginning you may find that some people are just not interested or feel they just don’t have the time. That’s ok. Go ahead with your hayride. Once people see how much fun you are having they will want to join in the next time.

Many neighborhoods have elderly people who live alone. They can’t get out and just walk around the neighborhood and meet people for obvious reasons. By having a hayride they can join in on the fun. Even if they don’t want to ride along they can help with invitations, decorations, food and drinks. They are meeting new people and helping in a positive way. This in turn helps them feel safe and comfortable in their own neighborhood.

Many children love to sing while on a hayride. If you know of anyone who plays the guitar or if a neighbor who wants to get involved plays a guitar bring it along. They can strum and everyone else can sing.

If your hayride will be taking place in the evening, be sure everyone brings jackets and blankets with them. The fall evenings can become very chilly and even though hot chocolate may be on the menu for after the hayride, your little ones still need to be comfortable while enjoy the sights and festivities.

Once the hayride is over be sure everyone comes over for the goodies afterwards. Hot chocolate and cookies are always a treat after a fun hayride. This also gives the children a chance to meet other children on their own while the adults have a chance to get to know each other without the children interrupting.

No matter where you go on your hayride or what you include in the festivities remember it’s a time to meet and get to know your neighbors. Your children will be much safer and happier living in a neighborhood they know and feel comfortable in and so will you.

Submitted by EZ Pumpkin Painting

Pumpkin Painting Made Easy