Highland, CA

Considering Highland, CA for Families with Newborns: A Friendly Guide

Raising a newborn in Highland, California, can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. Nestled in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, Highland offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility with access to urban amenities. Whether you're a new parent looking for educational resources or searching for green spaces to enjoy with your little one, this city has its fair share of offerings—and challenges. Let's dive into what makes Highland an appealing choice for raising a newborn, while also noting some aspects that could use improvement.

Education Opportunities

When it comes to education, Highland offers a variety of early childhood education facilities. You'll find numerous preschools and daycares within the city limits. The Highland Learning Academy is one such facility, providing a nurturing environment for young children. However, families might need to venture into the nearby city of San Bernardino or even down to Riverside for a broader range of options, especially if you're considering specialized programs or private schooling.

Healthcare Services

Healthcare is always a top priority for families with newborns, and Highland doesn’t disappoint. Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is just a short drive away and is one of the premier pediatric care facilities in the region. The San Bernardino County Public Health Department also offers numerous services tailored to infants and young children, including immunizations and growth monitoring. However, Highland lacks a pediatric emergency facility inside its city limits, so planning for emergencies is crucial.

Outdoor Spaces

One of the highlights of living in Highland is the abundance of outdoor spaces. Families can enjoy the sunshine at the Highland Community Park, which is equipped with playgrounds and picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing family outing. For more adventurous day trips, take a drive to the nearby San Bernardino National Forest, where you can immerse yourself in nature with stroller-friendly hiking trails and scenic spots. A particular gem is the Aurantia Park, which is designed with families in mind and includes safe areas for toddlers.

"One of the best ways to rejuvenate both parents and infants is to spend time in nature. Highland's parks offer ample opportunities for this."

Family-Friendly Attractions

While Highland may not have an abundance of commercial family-friendly attractions, it does offer a cozy, community-focused environment. Regular community events such as farmer's markets, local fairs, and holiday parades provide excellent opportunities for family bonding. For more extensive family-friendly activities, you may have to travel to nearby cities like Riverside or San Bernardino, where you can find museums, zoos, and entertainment venues tailored for young children.

Housing

Housing is another critical consideration for families. Highland offers relatively affordable housing options compared to larger Californian cities. Suburban neighborhoods provide spacious homes with yards, ideal for young families. The cost of living, although higher than the national average, is more manageable here compared to cities like Los Angeles. Highland is gradually growing, and new housing developments are being planned, potentially offering more choices in the future.

Public Transportation

Navigating public transportation with a newborn can be challenging, and Highland's public transit options are somewhat limited. Omnitrans provides bus services throughout the San Bernardino Valley, but routes may not be as frequent or convenient for families with young children. Having a car is often essential for getting around efficiently. However, with the proximity to major highways, reaching neighboring cities for additional amenities is relatively straightforward.

Safety and Security

Safety is always a primary concern for parents. Highland boasts a relatively low crime rate compared to some of its neighboring communities. The Highland Police Department actively engages in community policing, ensuring a safer environment for families. However, it's always wise to research specific neighborhoods and stay informed about local safety measures.

Community Support

Highland has a robust sense of community, which is invaluable for families with newborns. Parenting groups and support networks are quite active, and joining these can provide significant emotional and practical support. Local organizations frequently host events such as parenting workshops and baby yoga classes. The Highland Family YMCA also offers various programs and activities designed for families.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Educational Opportunities: Various preschools and daycares available.
2. Healthcare Services: Close to top-tier pediatric hospitals like Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.
3. Outdoor Spaces: Abundance of parks and proximity to natural attractions.
4. Affordable Housing: Relatively lower cost of living with spacious housing options.
5. Community Support: Active parenting groups and community events.

Cons:

1. Limited Higher Education Options: May need to travel for specialized educational programs.
2. Pediatric Emergency Services: Absence of a pediatric emergency facility within city limits.
3. Public Transportation: Limited and less convenient for families with young children.
4. Limited Family-Friendly Attractions: Need to travel to neighboring cities for larger attractions.
5. Safety and Security: While generally safe, it's crucial to research specific neighborhoods.

Conclusion

Highland, CA, offers a blend of suburban tranquility combined with essential amenities and a tight-knit community, making it an attractive option for families raising newborns. While it does have certain limitations, such as less specialized educational programs and limited public transportation, the city's advantages in healthcare, outdoor spaces, and affordable housing make it worth considering. Highland provides a nurturing environment that can foster happy childhoods and create lasting family memories.

Parents will find support, green spaces to explore, and many neighbors eager to welcome them into the community. Whether you're a new parent or expecting soon, Highland has various attributes that could make it an ideal place to call home.