Moving to a new place is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming. If you’re relocating to Vermont, you’ve already made a fantastic choice for your family. With its scenic beauty, excellent schools, and strong sense of community, Vermont consistently ranks as one of the best states for raising a family. But beyond the mountains and maple syrup, what really makes Vermont feel like home are the people.
To help you settle in, I’ve put together a list of the best family-friendly groups and activities that will connect you with like-minded people, help your kids make new friends, and give you a true sense of belonging.
Parent Groups That Make Life Easier
Finding your village is key when moving to a new place, and Vermont has plenty of welcoming parent groups that can help you navigate everything from playdates to childcare recommendations.
Facebook Groups: Online communities like VT Moms and Parents and Caregivers of Burlington & Beyond are great places to ask questions, find family-friendly events, and meet other parents in your area.
Dad Guild: A fantastic resource for dads looking to connect, share parenting tips, and find family-friendly activities. Learn more here.
Front Porch Forum: This hyper-local online platform is a uniquely Vermont way to connect with your new neighbors. Families use it to find playgroups, swap babysitting, and learn about community events.
Parent-Child Centers: Vermont is home to 15 Parent-Child Centers that offer parenting classes, support groups, and events where you can meet other parents while your kids enjoy fun activities.
Outdoor Adventure Groups for Active Families
If your family loves the great outdoors, Vermont is the perfect place to explore. These groups will help you connect with fellow nature lovers and introduce your kids to the beauty of Vermont’s landscape.
Green Mountain Club (GMC): This group organizes hikes for all skill levels, including kid-friendly outings where little ones can learn about nature while parents bond over shared experiences.
Local Ski Clubs: In towns like Stowe and Killington, ski clubs offer family-friendly programs, discounted passes, and lessons for kids. Winter sports are a big part of life here, and joining a ski club is a great way to embrace Vermont’s outdoor culture.
Vermont’s ski clubs offer family-friendly programs and discounts, making winter sports a great way to bond and enjoy the outdoors.
Youth and Adult Sports Leagues
Sports are a fantastic way to meet other families while keeping kids active and engaged. Whether your child is a soccer star or you’re looking for a co-ed softball league to join, Vermont has plenty of options.
Vermont Soccer League & Little League Baseball: Many towns have youth sports leagues that focus on teamwork, skill-building, and fun.
Adult Rec Leagues: If you’re looking to meet other parents while staying active, co-ed softball, volleyball, and soccer leagues often host family-friendly events where kids can tag along.
Creative and Cultural Community Groups
If your family loves books, art, and creativity, Vermont’s cultural scene has plenty to offer.
Town Libraries: Libraries in Vermont are vibrant community hubs. Many host story hours, summer reading programs, and craft workshops for kids and families.
Arts Organizations: Groups like Burlington City Arts and local community centers offer family-friendly art classes in painting, ceramics, and music. Some even provide scholarships for kids to participate.
Libraries in Vermont offer more than just books—they provide fun activities like board games, fostering connections and learning through play.
Homeschooling and Educational Groups
If you homeschool or are looking for alternative education options, Vermont has a strong and welcoming homeschooling community.
Vermont Home Education Network (VHEN): This group organizes field trips, curriculum exchanges, and networking events for homeschooling families.
STEM and Robotics Clubs: Maker spaces and hands-on tech programs are gaining popularity, offering opportunities for kids to explore science, engineering, and coding.
Community Service and Sustainability Groups
Vermonters take sustainability and community service seriously. Getting involved in a local service or gardening group is a meaningful way to meet people while giving back.
Community Gardens & 4-H Clubs: Teach your kids about sustainability by joining a community garden or a local 4-H Club where they can learn about growing food and taking care of the environment.
Rotary Clubs & Lions Clubs: These organizations often host family-friendly service projects like holiday gift drives, park cleanups, and food pantry collections.
Libraries in Vermont serve as vibrant community hubs, hosting events and activities for families to connect and learn.
A Personal Story: Finding Community in Vermont
When my friend Sarah moved to Vermont, she felt a little lost at first. With no family nearby, she wondered how she’d find her people. But after joining her local Parent-Child Center and volunteering at a community garden, everything changed. She made lifelong friends, and her kids planted their first vegetable patch—something they still talk about every summer.
Her story is a perfect example of how Vermont’s sense of community can turn a new place into home.
How to Find the Right Group for You
Settling into a new state takes time, but joining the right groups can make all the difference. Whether you’re hitting the trails with the Green Mountain Club, enjoying story hour at your local library, or cheering on your child’s soccer team, Vermont offers plenty of ways to connect with your new community.
Have you found a great family-friendly group in Vermont? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear about it!
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