a kind father and son plant a tree in their neighborhood park, doing yard work

National Good Neighbor Day is Saturday, September 28, a time to celebrate the people in your neighborhood and cherish the bond you all share. This day was invented in the 1970s by a woman named Becky Mattson who wanted to form more of a connection with her neighbors in Lakeside, Montana.

President Jimmy Carter officially established National Good Neighbor Day in 1978, and it’s been celebrated every September 28th since. In an effort to promote good relationships between neighbors, people are encouraged to mark the occasion by sharing food and fun. The purpose of this day is to build a sense of community and encourage bonding while promoting strong relationships between the people you share your street with.

Neighborliness can be embodied in many different ways. Even simple acts of caring can make a difference, just by saying hi and having a conversation with another, or bringing a meal to an elderly neighbor who lives alone. Beyond everyday goodwill, being a good neighbor can indeed be a lifeline to those in need.

So grab the kids and the whole family and try these simple ways of reaching out to your neighbors.

16 Simple Ways to Be a Good Neighbor

From taking out someone’s trash to simply giving a wave to a neighbor as you pass by, there are many ways you can display kindness to those you live amongst.

  1. Paint kindness rocks, hiding them for your neighbors to find.
  2. Leave a special neighbor a heartfelt message with sidewalk chalk on their walkway.
  3. Deliver baked goods, from homemade cookies to fresh baked bread.
  4. Take out the trash for your elderly neighbor, and bring it in from the curb once it’s been emptied.
  5. Take your neighbor’s dog for a walk.
  6. Wave to a neighbor or stop to chat for a bit.
  7. Take a neighborhood family walk or bike ride, saying “Hello” to everyone you encounter.
  8. Offer to weed a flower bed, rake leaves, or do some simple yard work your neighbor may appreciate.
  9. Drop off a pizza or two when a family next door is having a tough time.
  10. Invite the new family over for a backyard barbecue.
  11. Invite a family with kids over for dessert and backyard games.
  12. Leave a gift basket for someone who has just had a new baby.
  13. Take a family walk, picking up trash along the way.
  14. Encourage your kids to draw pictures for an elderly neighbor and stop by to deliver them.
  15. Help a neighbor unload groceries.
  16. Set up a babysit swap night with a neighboring family.

Taking Things a Step Further

There are other ways in which you can be a good neighbor on an ongoing basis, and respect forms the foundation of this endeavor.

  • Maintain curb appeal: Just one unkempt and neglected home in a community can slash the property value for the entire neighborhood. Do your part by mowing overgrown grass, weeding dead flower beds, cleaning out your gutters, picking up yard toys, and power washing your home.
  • Mind your pets: You may love Fido, but that doesn’t mean the neighbors do too. Be a responsible pet owner and keep them in check. When taking walks with the dog, keep them on a leash, clean up after them, and drop the bags in your own trash and not your neighbors’.
  • Understand your property lines: Property lines are boundaries that define the line between your yard and your neighbor’s. Know where they exist so you can prevent property line disputes. Hire a surveyor, check your property deed, or review a plat map.
  • Practice fence etiquette: If you plan to erect a fence in your yard, speak with your neighbor first to let them know what kind of fence you plan to install and if you both will be sharing the costs.
  • Follow community rules: If you live in a homeowners or condo association, you already agreed to community rules. But every once in a while, take a moment to review parking restrictions, quiet hours, and lawn maintenance.
  • Keep the noise down: If you live in a duplex with shared walls, or in homes very close together, be mindful of your noise level. If you plan to have a party, let your neighbor know so they can be aware. Better yet – invite them!

Book a Tour of Country Home Learning Center Today

Come see what great little neighbors our students make here at Country Home Learning Center! From the toddler room to the preschool room, we instill values of kindness and how to be a good friend. Contact us today to book a tour.