Raising a Baby at Eielson Air Force Base, AK: A New Parent's Guide
Located just 26 miles southeast of Fairbanks and within the beautiful wilderness of Alaska, Eielson Air Force Base offers a unique living experience for families, especially those raising newborns. As a new parent, you're likely curious about what this base and its surrounding areas can offer. From healthcare services to family-friendly attractions, this guide aims to give you a comprehensive insight into life at Eielson AFB.
Living at Eielson Air Force Base has its own set of advantages and challenges. For families with newborns and young children, the quality of life encompasses a broad spectrum of factors. Let's delve into the elements that make Eielson AFB a favorable place for raising a child, while also taking a candid look at some of the struggles you may face.
Education Opportunities
One of the primary concerns for any family is the availability and quality of education. While Eielson AFB itself doesn't offer a large number of early childhood education facilities, nearby Fairbanks is home to several reputable daycare centers and preschools. The Eielson Child Development Center on the base is a valuable resource, providing programs designed specifically for infants and toddlers.
For future educational needs, the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District offers a range of public schools known for good academic performance. Additionally, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is a remarkable institution for higher education, renowned for its research programs, which could be a potential advantage for families planning to stay long-term.
Healthcare Services
Access to high-quality healthcare is paramount for families with newborns. Eielson AFB itself features the 354th Medical Group, providing a variety of healthcare services, including pediatric care. However, for specialized and emergency care, families often rely on facilities in Fairbanks such as Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, which offers comprehensive neonatal and pediatric services.
The transition from base to local hospitals is seamless, and many families find it comforting that specialized care is within a manageable distance. Having access to both base medical facilities and local hospitals gives families multiple options in case of health emergencies.
Outdoor Spaces
Alaska is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and this extends to Eielson AFB. The base is surrounded by sprawling outdoor spaces perfect for family outings. Birch Lake and Chena Lakes Recreation Area are popular spots for picnics, walks, and gentle outdoor activities suitable for newborns and toddlers.
Additionally, the base itself has well-maintained parks and playgrounds, providing safe environments for your child to explore and enjoy. The colder months can limit outdoor activities, but the beauty of the Alaskan landscape offers unique experiences like sledding and other winter sports.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Fairbanks and its surrounding areas offer a range of attractions that are ideal for families with young children. The Fairbanks Children’s Museum provides a variety of interactive exhibits designed to engage young minds. Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge is another excellent spot for family-friendly nature walks and wildlife viewing.
Eielson AFB also frequently organizes community events and family outings, which can be a great way to bond with other families on the base and create lasting memories.
Housing
Housing on Eielson AFB is generally considered comfortable and family-friendly. The base offers on-post housing with various configurations to accommodate families of different sizes. Housing is typically assigned based on rank and family size, which makes it easier for families with newborns to find suitable living spaces.
While the cost of living in Alaska can be higher compared to other states, military families benefit from housing allowances, which significantly offset these expenses. Off-base housing is available in nearby towns, but it requires careful consideration of commute times and accessibility to vital amenities.
Public Transportation
Navigating public transportation with a newborn can be challenging, but Eielson AFB and nearby Fairbanks offer solutions. On-base shuttle services are available for families without personal vehicles. Additionally, Fairbanks provides bus services through the Fairbanks North Star Borough Transit System, though these routes might be less frequent compared to urban counterparts.
For most families, owning a personal vehicle is advantageous for grocery trips, pediatric appointments, and extracurricular activities. Alaska's weather conditions make owning a winter-ready vehicle almost a necessity.
Safety and Security
Safety is always a top priority for families with newborns, and Eielson AFB scores well in this department. The base has a strong sense of security owing to its restricted access and well-trained security personnel. Moreover, the base community is close-knit, often looking out for one another.
Crime rates on the base are low, and emergency response services are efficient. While Fairbanks does have higher crime rates compared to the base, overall, the region is considered safe for families, particularly when basic precautions are taken.
Community Support
Community support on Eielson AFB is robust, with numerous programs designed to help military families transition smoothly into base life. The base's Family Support Center organizes various support groups, parenting classes, and social events.
For new parents, these resources are invaluable, providing advice, camaraderie, and moral support. Additionally, the base includes chaplain services and psychological support tailored to assist families in managing stress and adapting to military life.
List of Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Close-Knit Community: Strong support networks for families.
- Healthcare: Access to comprehensive medical care both on and off-base.
- Outdoor Activities: Abundant outdoor spaces and recreational activities.
- Safety: Low crime rates and high security.
- Education: Access to quality early childcare and renowned educational institutions nearby.
Cons:
- Harsh Winters: Cold weather can limit outdoor activities.
- Limited Public Transportation: Importance of owning a personal vehicle.
- Higher Cost of Living: Alaska’s living costs can be higher compared to other states.
- Remote Location: Distance from larger urban centers.
- Limited On-Base Facilities: Fewer early childhood education facilities than major bases.
Raising a baby at Eielson Air Force Base, AK, can be both an adventure and a learning experience. With a strong support system, quality healthcare, and abundant natural beauty, the base provides a nurturing environment for families. However, the harsh winters and higher living costs require careful planning and adaptation. Overall, Eielson AFB presents a balanced mix of advantages and challenges, making it a unique place to raise your newborn.