Weighing up the pros and cons of relocating your family out west? It could be the best decision you’ve ever made!
Making the tree change from city living to a small country town can often leave parents and children feeling anxious about the unknown, particularly when all they know is the hustle and bustle. Will it be different? Of course. Will it take time to adjust? Definitely. But growing up in the country will also provide your family with so many benefits!
Advantages of growing up in the country
The benefits of growing up in a small country town far outweigh the negatives. Here are just some of positives for families in regional areas.
- Community initiatives: One of the most common concerns for parents about relocating to rural areas in Queensland is that their children will get bored and will find themselves in trouble. This could not be further from the truth. The majority of these towns offer great community activities and initiatives to ensure children growing up in the country don’t miss out. Local councils build and improve skate parks, BMX tracks, sporting clubs, community centres, and family-friendly events.
- Freedom: Rural towns are known for being safer as everyone is looking out for one another. Children can walk to school, ride their bikes in the street, and the community all keep an eye out to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Education: Class sizes are smaller which means children receive more time and additional support when needed. Don’t be fooled into thinking country towns have a lower standard of education.
- Community: Unlike the city, you will get to know your neighbours. Street parties aren’t uncommon and, more often than not, you won’t even have to ask your neighbour to bring your bins in or feed your pets when you vacation. Everyone just helps out.
- Relationships: Children will grow to be more understanding and empathetic of those in their community. Your children will also form long-lasting friendships and it isn’t uncommon for the parents of these children to become close as well.
- Change of pace: Not everything is a rush. Growing up in the country gives children the chance to take in their surroundings and enjoy them. Parents are more relaxed and children are too.
Disadvantages of growing up in the country
- Everyone knows everyone’s business: Yes, it’s great that everyone knows one another but with that also comes the gossip, everyone knows everyone else’s business.
- Fewer events: Major attractions or concerts are rarely held in town. To attend these types of events you will need to travel a couple of hours away.
- Missed opportunities: Skills such as a learning how to catch public transport are missed because everything is typically within walking distance.
For some families, growing up in the country will be a love-hate relationship. For others though, the town and its community will begin to feel like family. Your children will enjoy the freedom and you might realise that a rural childhood was the best thing you could have given your kids.
