Raising a Family in France – Guide for Expats
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France has always been a place of dreams for expats, and it’s not difficult to see why. France has a long history, known delicacies, and a way of living that seeks equilibrium. It’s an especially appealing option for families. The French celebrate family unity, and the government ensures help for both parents and children.
It’s not easy moving halfway around the world, but preparation is key—as well as some help from International Sea & Air Shipping. Whether it’s France’s cultural appeal or its family-friendly policies, this guide will help you make a smooth move.
Why France is Perfect for Families?
As for the French, parents are taught patience, structure, and independence. Druckerman’s tale of how French parents train kids to adhere to adult schedules, wait for their turn, and relish their calm moments. Great for building self-discipline and resilience.
Serve meals at the table, and with it kids learn to savor various tastes and enjoy the social aspect of eating together.
In turn, raising kids in France usually means fostering independence, teaching patience, and building healthy relationships with food.
Work–life balance is something that French society is really keen on. It’s a time to get back to spending quality time with parents, rather than being dragged from one overscheduled activity to the next. This philosophy has created a calm and caring environment, which is very good for expat families coming in from overseas to a new life in France.
Government Support for Families
One of the most generous family policy systems in France
- Childcare Subsidies: Family access to low-fee childcare, including crèche and registered nannies. These are the type of places that provide meaningful, structured activities
- Education: Public schools are free, or they are ridiculously cheap, even for university. Preschool is also available for most children, providing an early start
- Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave give parents additional time with their kids in the child’s early years. Employment terms are also flexible
- Family Allowances: The government provides tax breaks and monthly payments to help families make their budget stretch
Communities also contribute to family well-being with parks, playgrounds, and activities that make expats feel right at home.
French Cuisine and the Culture of French Mealtimes
In France, meals are the pride of family life. Kids get lots and many foods early on, encouraging them to develop a taste for more expensive ones. Mealtimes on a schedule—fewer snack breaks, more shared meals—can limit snacking beyond hunger and teach kids to wait.
French kids are offered just a taste of vegetables, new flavors, and conviviality from the table. Children learn many skills during mealtimes, including manners, gratitude, and social communication.
Raising a Family in France: Tips for Expat Families
- Visit local markets to explore fresh ingredients together
- Plan meals around set times to support French routines
- Encourage variety, introducing French classics gradually
Classes or workshops to learn French food traditions can also serve as a bonding moment for the whole family.
Preparing for the Move
There are many things to consider when moving abroad—especially if you have kids. Create a list and gather materials ahead of time. For ease, look into professional packing services for international moving. These services can make sure that all of your things are properly packed and ready for the road. Some things to have in mind as you prepare for your move:
Packing Tips
- Label boxes clearly
- Put essential documents in your carry-on
- For breakable items: use good packing materials
- Pack a first-day box with clothing, toiletries, snacks, and toys
Professional labor is also priceless for unwieldy or delicate items such as furniture and musical instruments. You can send your goods in a container when moving. Eliminating belongings in advance of the move can save time on unpacking and costs overall.
Transporting Belongings
For larger or more fragile items such as furniture and musical instruments, professional help is so important. For instance, international piano movers who are experts in London know how to move bulky and fragile items without causing damage.
For other items, consider shipping in containers, which provides a cost-effective way to transport household goods. Containers come in all sizes so you can get the perfect fit for your family.
You may even want to downsize before you move. The things you no longer need should be donated, sold, or recycled. This can be a money-saving move and will make unpacking at your new home so much easier.
Also think about extra coverage for valuables in transit. Consider protecting valuable items with insurance to prevent any unforeseen losses.
Preparing Children for the Move
Children can feel overwhelmed by a move overseas. Involve them early:
- Let them pack favorite items
- Getting to show them images of your new city
- Maintain consistency in routines as the transition occurs
Education in France
There are several types of schools for which families of expats will have to choose between:
- Public Schools: Free, challenging, and excellent for cultural inclusion
- Private Schools: There is usually a national curriculum, and there are often extra language programs or thematic ones too
- International Schools: Great for families who might move again or want a bilingual education
Mealtime in Schools
Balanced, healthy meals top the menu at French schools. They learn about the joy of multi-course lunches, are encouraged to use proper table manners, and taste new foods—a way to encourage healthy eating habits.
Sports, music, art, and theater in the form of after-school programs are instrumental in getting kids to develop skills and socialize.
Challenges and Detractors: The Honest Truth about Expat Family Life
Many difficulties had been anticipated in moving to a new country, but it was through that anticipation and the preparation in advance that they became opportunities.
Language Barriers
Transitioning to learning French as a family may help alleviate this. Apps, discussion groups, and local classes all help build confidence.
Cultural Differences
French Parents—Independent Kids! Watching, in context, how other people around you parent and getting to know parents through school or community groups is useful.
Homesickness
Keep a little bit of home while adapting over time to French customs. Video calls, beloved recipes, and an established routine can help with emotional adjustment.
Navigating Bureaucracy
Administrative things can be, uh, well, just that in France. Keep a copy of important documents and consult expat networks or professionals. You can hire International Sea & Air Shipping to provide logistics for less stress.
Final Steps for Your Relocation
When you do arrive, try to settle in.
Hiring Professionals
Seasoned international movers can assist with customs, logistics, packing, and unpacking too—helping families ease into the transition.
Settling In
Get to know your neighborhood, start children in school, and sort out utilities fast. Do some museum hopping, go to community events, and learn about traditions.
Building a Routine
A predictable routine offers stability. As you transition, plan shared meals, downtime, and exploration time.
Celebrate the Pleasure of Being a Family in France
Living in France and raising a family here is a unique opportunity to live life the way it was meant to be lived: amazingly. Rewards include scheduled meals, such as those in the military, and ample government assistance.
You will have done all the right things, and with the proper preparation (including seeking professional assistance as indicated), your stay will be a wonderful, fulfilling transition!
If a move to France is something you’ve been thinking of doing, begin today… Your family’s next story awaits.