The Value of Tapping into Local Resources at your Next Duty Station

When a military family finally arrives at their new duty station, there’s a sigh of relief. However, the next part of the PCS journey is just beginning: getting oriented to a new home, a new location, a new place. And while the overwhelming feeling is a real thing, one way to deal with it is to begin looking into the local resources.

Showing up and learning about local resources provides a way to feel a sense of belonging even though the area is unfamiliar. The more families learn about things to do and places to go, the less they will feel isolated, especially if they work together to learn about the new area.

Making the Library Your First Stop

One of the first stops for military families should always be the library. It’s more than just a place for books! It’s really one of the easiest, lowest-pressure places for every member of the family to begin exploring. Plus, many libraries offer the following:

• Free library cards
• Children’s story times
• Teen events
• Book clubs
• Homeschool resources
• Computer and printer access
• Local history information
• Community bulletin boards
• Classes and workshops
• Summer reading programs
• Quiet spaces to decompress

Exploring Parks and Outdoor Spaces

The next local resource to check out would be getting outside and discovering all there is to explore in nature without any pressure. Parks and outdoor spaces are a great way to learn about the local community. They can help families discover:

• Walking trails
• Playgrounds
• Dog parks
• Splash pads
• Sports fields
• Picnic areas
• Local events
• Farmers markets
• Community festivals

After relocating your family, outdoor spaces also offer a type of regulation for the nervous system that may be much needed after a long, stressful move. Outdoor spaces allow benefits for adults and children alike (and even your fury children, too).

Benefits for adults:

• Fresh air
• Movement
• A break from unpacking
• Time away from screens and stress

Benefits for kids:

• Play
• Familiar routines
• A chance to meet other children

Benefits for pets:

• New smells
• New walks
• New energy outlets

Finding Connection at the Community Center

The next place to check out is the local community center. There, you’ll often find fitness classes, youth programs, sports leagues, seasonal events, volunteer opportunities, and more! It’s also a place where families may find social connections that they so desperately need upon moving to a new location.

Creating a Local Resource Map

While you’re going about your exploring, create a “Local Resource Map” to keep on the refrigerator with the following categories:

• Libraries
• Nearest park
• Favorite walking trail
• Community center
• Recreation center
• Dog park
• Coffee shop
• Farmers market
• Local museum
• Theater or arts center
• Free family activity spot
• Emergency clinic
• Grocery store
• Hardware store
• Favorite quiet place

Setting Gentle Expectations

PCS life already comes with enough pressure, so be gentle and realistic with your expectations. For example, when you first begin, try just going to one new place per week, go during low-crowd times, resolve to ask one question while you’re there, or let your kids choose the place. Remember not to force anything; not everything has to be a magical memory. Whatever you do to find your new places in your new place, remember to give yourself a break. Learning takes time.