203. How Do You Build a Village When You’re Raising Kids Far From Family?

How do parents build a village when they’re raising kids far from family?
In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline dig into one of the hardest parts of modern parenting: feeling alone while trying to raise connected, confident kids.

From neighbours and school families to sports teams, gyms, dog parks, and simple daily routines, they talk about how community is built in real life — not through grand gestures, but through small repeated moments. A wave across the street. A favour for a neighbour. A shared ride to practice. A standing dinner with friends. The kind of connection that grows slowly, then suddenly feels solid.

They also get honest about how much family life has changed in Canada: smaller households, more distance from grandparents, more seniors living alone, and more parents trying to do it all without the built-in support previous generations often had.

This episode is for parents who have moved away from home, feel isolated, or want to create stronger ties for their children and teens. It’s a grounded conversation about rebuilding community, modelling connection, and giving kids something every family needs: people they can count on.

Listen in for practical ideas on:

• how to build a village when you’re starting from scratch
• why neighbours still matter
• how sports, school, and local routines can create real connection
• why online connection doesn’t fully replace in-person community
• how parents can model belonging for children and teens

Perfect for: parents of kids, tweens, and teens; families new to a city; parents dealing with loneliness; anyone trying to raise children with stronger community ties.

Homework activities for adults to support children and teens, plus resources needed

1. Learn the names of five neighbours

What to do:
Over the next two weeks, make a point of learning the names of at least five people who live nearby. Say hello when you see them. Keep it simple and warm.

Why it helps kids and teens:
Children notice who their adults trust, greet, and feel comfortable around. That helps them feel safer and more rooted where they live.

Resources needed:

• phone notes app or small notebook
• ten minutes during walks, school drop-off, or after work

2. Start one repeat family routine in the community

What to do:
Pick one regular outing at the same time each week: dog park, local café, library, rec centre, walking route, skating rink, gym, farmers’ market.

Why it helps kids and teens:
Familiar faces turn into friendly faces. Repetition builds comfort, and comfort makes connection easier.

Resources needed:

• calendar
• one local spot
• a realistic time you can keep most weeks

3. Offer one small favour to another family

What to do:
Send a message or say in person: “If you ever need mail picked up, a quick school pickup, or someone to check on the house, let us know.”

Why it helps kids and teens:
Kids grow up seeing support as something people give and receive, not somethi

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