[nico7]

One way to overcome this barrier is by finding people with whom you really share an interest -- it could be anything that you're serious about (skiing, religion, electronics, cars, literature, music, etc.). You can find out from local papers or town recreation centers if there are any offerings. You can check Do something, Learn something, Share something, Change something - Meetup.com and craigslist classifieds: jobs, housing, personals, for sale, services, community, events, forums for groups of people with similar interests and local/regional meeting times.

You have better chances of succeeding in places that are accustomed to relocated residents, like New London, New Haven, Stamford, and surrounding areas. University-affiliated activities are particularly good, especially those that are intended as networking or meet-and-greet events.

Best of luck -- there are plenty of people in your same situation, and the locals will want to know you if they see you have common interests.

[brasscitybluenwhite]

Originally Posted by melhuber

Hello!

We just relocated to Southington,CT in November. We have a 2nd grader and a 5 year old who will be entering K in September. We would like to make new friends that have kids as well but we don't know where to start. We live on a street where there is only one other family with children and they are never home. My husband works days and I work evenings so that doesn't help. How did you meet new people when you changed states?

Thanks
Mel

hey mel

I kinda have the same situation. Im 20 and I go to UCONN. I came from a city and I kinda have a similar situation where Im trying to meet ppl with different opinions than mine. At school, I'm used to being lonely, but I've learned things about ppl in CT that I can tell other kids that might be in my shoes someday.

-Sports. This is the number 1 thing that divides everyone. Where Im from, the kids that were good at sports usually dont go to college. But now at college, it seems that the kids that are more atheltic have better social lives. If i could, I would suggest having your children play sports cuz it might be the best way someone could meet new friends.

-Church? I learned that alot of ppl who move to different places (not necessarily CT) find close friends with the ppl in their church. Im not a weekly churchgoer, but I think it would be a good idea if your looking for ur kids to grow up with similar beliefs as you.

-boy/girl scouts? I talked to someone at my job who said that he used to do scouting. he told me a story about how when he was younger, they would have meetings at each others houses. in order for this to happen, Im sure the parents had to know each other.


just some ideas

[Connecticut Pam]

You say you have a second grader? I would go to some of the events they have at the school for his class. They must need parents to chaperone different activities the kids have? You say you work nights? This would leave you open to do things with his school during the day..take your kindegarten tyke with you. Also, if you can, take your little one out during the day perhaps to the library to the children's section or when it gets warmer to the park?

You must do things like get your hair done? Perhaps get your nails done? Shop at the local grocery stores? Talk to people, say hello, start a conversation with other Moms you see out during the day. I know a really great place to get your nails done. It is called Jacqueline's Nail Boutique. The owner Jackie has 3 kids with the youngest in kindergartgen now. I can't post her phone number here but make an appointment, get your nails done and she will be able to talk with you about all the cool things her kids are doing in the Southington area.

Good luck...just be friendly, smile and talk with people...you will be surprised just how friendly people can be.

[Currency Pair Crocodile]

I made tons in the Y.

They gave me a royal goodbye when I left.

Not to mention, I lived there more than my apartment.

[Cambium]

I'll be your friend. I have a dog so its easier for me. I walk...and I meet. Having kids helps too. You'll have things in common with other parents.

Friends are important but don't make yourself depressed if its hard to make friends. Just find a hobby around the house... Start your own vegtable garden. That'll keep you busy and then in turn you can talk about it to your neighbors and invite them over for some lemon tea.