Moving to a new city is an exciting adventure, but when you’re a parent, the logistics can feel overwhelming. Beyond finding a new home and a school, you’re faced with the challenge of rebuilding your family’s entire support system. The good news is that Perth is an incredibly family-friendly city with a vibrant community just waiting to be discovered.
To help you get settled, we’ve created a simple checklist to guide you through finding the best child-friendly resources in your new home.
1. Healthcare and Essential Services
Your family’s health is your number one priority. Getting these services sorted first will give you immense peace of mind.
- Find a Family Doctor or Paediatrician: Seek out a family GP with a special interest in children’s health, or a dedicated paediatrician. Resources like the Perth Children’s Hospital website and various private practices like Kindersave Paediatrics can be a great starting point for finding specialists in your new area.
- Locate Your Local Hospital: Familiarise yourself with the location of the nearest hospital with an emergency department, such as Perth Children’s Hospital, so you are prepared for any unexpected accidents.
- Check for Dentists and Allied Health: Find local dentists that cater to children. Also, research local allied health services like physiotherapists or speech pathologists if your child requires them.
2. Connect with Other Parents
Building a community is key to feeling at home in a new city.
- Explore Parenting Support Groups: Organizations like Ngala and the Child and Parent Centres offer a wide range of free services, support groups, and workshops for parents of children from birth to eight years old. They are a fantastic way to meet local families and get advice.
- Join Local Community Groups: Search for “Mums and Bubs” or “Parents of [Your Suburb]” on social media platforms like Facebook. These groups are an invaluable source of local recommendations, from playgroups to advice on local services.
3. Find Family-Friendly Fun
Perth is a city built for outdoor fun and family entertainment. Once you’ve settled in, start exploring!
- Visit Local Libraries: Perth’s public libraries, such as those in the City of South Perth, offer free weekly story times, rhyme sessions, and a range of engaging activities for kids of all ages.
- Discover Local Parks and Playgrounds: Explore your new neighbourhood by visiting local parks. Kings Park and Botanic Garden is a must-visit, with its world-renowned playgrounds and family-friendly spaces. Other popular attractions include the Perth Zoo, AQWA, and Scitech.
- Look for Community Centres and Playgroups: The City of Wanneroo and other local councils often run affordable school holiday programs and community events that are perfect for meeting new people and keeping kids entertained.
4. Schools and Childcare
Whether your children are starting a new school or need a babysitter for a date night, planning for childcare is essential.
- Research School Enrolment: Contact the Department of Education to understand the enrolment process for your local public school, or research private schools in your area.
- Secure Childcare: If you require care outside of school hours or for occasional needs, explore local childcare centres or a professional babysitting agency like Cherished Cherubs. We can provide peace of mind by connecting you with trusted, local sitters who can help you settle in.
Conclusion
Moving to Perth is a fantastic decision for any family. While the transition may feel daunting, a little bit of preparation and a willingness to explore will make all the difference. With this checklist in hand, you’re well on your way to discovering all the wonderful, child-friendly resources that make Perth an incredible place to call home.
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