Honey, I've shrunk the house
It's amazing how much space such a small person can take up. You've painted the nursery, prepared the moses basket and child-proofed the sockets and bleach cupboard. But then the presents start to arrive for Christmas and birthdays and the house starts to get smaller and smaller.
So, it's time to move and there's lots to think about as well as the size of the garden. Here we give you just a few tips on making sure that you're moving in the right direction.
Schools.
No need to panic about GCSE results just yet but you do need to consider the local school's reputation. Find all the schools in your chosen area by looking at schoolsfinder.direct.gov.uk and then check to see how they're rated at ofsted.gov.uk.
Doctor.
As any new parent will know, you'll have never spent so much time at your GP's than when a newborn comes along. As well as all the standard checkups, there's the trips to examine every rash, cough and bump on the head. Not to mention, the extra trips you'll be making for yourself as well. Now, you can't find out exactly how good the local surgery is but you can find their contact details at nhs.uk then call them up and see how easy it is to make an appointment and whether they're taking new admissions (the same applies for dentists).
Traffic.
As well as the obvious dangers of living next to a busy road, you need to consider getting the little one to sleep through if buses and boy racers are trundling past your house into the early hours. Visit your preferred homes at different times of the day to check out the traffic flow. Parking is also an important factor, carrying sleeping children and shopping is complicated at the best of times without having to trudge half a mile up the road.
Park.
As the kids grow up, of course a back garden the size of Wiltshire would be nice but it's not always financially possible to get. If so, a decent park is the next best thing. Take a look at wizziwiz.co.uk and search for parks.
Shop.
With the arrival of a little one, things will be required a lot quicker and and won't be able to wait until the morning. For those last minute nappy or milk purchases, a good local mini supermarket is an absolute must. Also, it's nice as a new mum to be able to just wander out with the pram instead of having to load up the car every time you want to go out.
Other useful links:
Hospital ratings: drfoster.co.uk
Crime statistics: crimestatistics.org.uk
Public Transport: traveline.org.uk
General information: upmystreet.co.uk
