The art of checking in

Whether it’s a cup of sugar or just a friendly face, a neighbor can often offer a particular kind of joy. Especially during a time when we have such little interaction in real life.

Are you feeling inspired to up your neighbor game a bit?

Read on for a few fun ways to connect with people in your building, on your block, or down the street.

Hint: sometimes it’s as easy as starting with a smile. 

It’s all about the check in

We all love to be checked in on. Whether it’s by family, friends, or the people we share an elevator with.

Send an occasional text or email to your neighbors to see how they’re doing and let them know you’re thinking of them.

We promise this little gesture won’t go unnoticed.

Notes are always a good idea

There’s nothing quite as neighborly as a handwritten note. Whether it’s tucked into a neighbor’s mailbox or slid under their apartment door, it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to the recipient’s face.

Leave notes on special occasions like birthdays (if you know them) and holidays. Leave notes for no reason at all. If you get a new neighbor, it’s always nice to leave them a welcome note.

They’ll feel immediately included in the community. Plus, you’ll be the first person they ask to borrow a cup of sugar or where they’ll send the extra cookies.

Psst… We recommend these.

Chivalry is not dead

Hold the elevator door. Shovel their snowy steps. Mow their lawn if you’re out doing yours. Bring their mail in for them.

These little actions can make someone’s day or even week, and you’ll most likely get lots of favors in return.  

Never underestimate the power of a baked good

Whether it’s homemade banana bread (a KJ fave) or something sweet from a local shop, there’s nothing better than opening your door to find a box of delicious treats.

Leave morsels on holidays, birthdays, or as a gesture of good will if you happened to have thrown a boisterous party the night before. 

Celebrate together

A great way to get to know your neighbors is to party with them.

Host a block party or neighborhood get together to keep the community spirit alive. 

Smile

Sometimes all you need to do to be a good neighbor is the easiest thing of all: Smile. 

You never know when that simple offering of kindness will totally change someone’s day or how it might change your own.