As a family grows, they move to the less crowded suburbs. At least, that’s how the typical scenario goes. But for some New York City families, connection and community with neighbors is a great reason to stay in a one-bedroom apartment.
The New York Times profiles the stories of three families with children who prefer public parks and pre-war elevators over private lawns and cul-de-sacs.“These parents are willing to make significant sacrifices in space and living expenses to preserve the uber-local community their families have formed with others in nearby blocks or even inside the same building,” The New York Times reports.
Community bonds aren’t only established between the children—parents become close friends among each other as well.
In fact, in some buildings, older residents have become surrogate grandparents, teaching the children how to garden in the shared backyard, and even cooking them breakfast.
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