Every kid's dream is to live in a neighborhood occupied by other children their age. It's a parent's dream, as well. After all, what parent doesn't dread hearing the words "I'm bored" come summertime? Young families who reside in neighborhoods primarily occupied by older people face a dilemma. Their kids are going to need frequent transportation back and forth to the houses of friends who live in other neighborhoods. This inconvenience is minor, however, when compared to other, more serious issues related to the relative "kid-friendliness" of a neighborhood.

What if you live around the corner from a popular watering hole that attracts unsavory types on a nightly basis? Or perhaps you move into a neighborhood based on the belief that the area is good for children - only to discover later your town's plans for an adult-themed business within walking distance.

You don't have to be taken off guard. Actually, if you keep your eyes and ears open during your home-search process, you'll probably find some clear indicators as to whether or not the neighborhood you're considering will be a good choice for your growing family.

The importance of driving around a neighborhood in the morning, afternoon and late- night hours cannot be understated. Don't rely on just one daytime drive-through because many areas with nightlife can assume a different persona after dark. During the daylight hours, look for evidence of children: toys, swingsets, bicycles and tricycles out front, in the driveways, on the front porches and steps. If you're passing through during the summertime, do you see children outside playing? How many, and what would you estimate their approximate ages to be? Do you spot any adults outside supervising the children?

As you scope out neighborhoods with your Realtor, does he or she tout the public school system? Ask him or her where the nearest public library is located. Does the library schedule regular storytimes for young children? Are you hearing about several family-friendly amenities as you drive together toward your prospective new neighborhood? Or is your Realtor trying to sell you on the numerous clubs, pubs and other nightlife in the area? Perhaps he/she is remaining mum about the town/city's amenities. If that's the case, sometimes silence can speak volumes. You've got to do your homework regardless of what or how much your Realtor does - or doesn't - say.

Log on to the Internet, and see if your prospective new hometown maintains a Web page. If so, what information is the town using to sell itself? The schools? The presence of amenities that accommodate families? Parks and other recreational activities? And even if the Web site mentions such advantages, can you find them as you make your way around the city, and if so, are they in good condition? Some cities and towns may pay lip service to such amenities but do a poor job of maintaining them. If you're hearing positive comments about the local school system, make sure you obtain the concrete data (in other words, test scores) as proof. Your Realtor can help you find this information.

Consider what kind of businesses are based in the area. Do you see a wide assortment of restaurants and cafes? Retail shops, including stores that sell children's products, such as toys and clothes? You'll want to investigate the area's cultural offerings, as well. Obviously, the more cultural opportunities the town/city has, the better. Look for such offerings as a theater (stage, not movie), classical music ensembles and art galleries. A city with theaters or bookstores targeted specifically at children deserves extra points.

If the list of available kid-friendly activities in the area is somewhat shorter than you'd hoped, don't despair. If you plan to attend a local church, you may wish to investigate playgroups, parents' day out programs, babysitting co-ops and other community organizations. You may also consider looking to local schools, nonprofit organizations and volunteer associations for similar opportunities.

And while you're gathering information about a neighborhood, don't forget to listen to one of your most powerful indicators: your instincts. If the community feels right, it probably is. If the warning lights go off in your head - regardless of how overly sensitive you think you might be - listen to them. Those signals could be telling you something. And remember to use the Internet as your research tool throughout the entire home-search process. Community Web sites and newspapers often will tell you much of what you need to know to make the best decision for your family's future.

Published: October 19, 2000

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