Moving to France with Children
Moving of any kind can be traumatic and overwhelming for children. Even more so, a major move to France can definitely be hard on your younger family members so it is important to prepare them for such a move. Because of their youth and little understanding, it is also crucial to communicate such a move with care. Children are extremely resilient, so the traumas that come with a move are usually short lived. To prepare your children, it is important to discuss schooling differences, food differences, and language differences. By beginning these discussions early and continuing to have them often, most children will be excited about moving to France; it is important to prepare and take care of these things beforehand.
The first thing that you should discuss with your school-aged children is the difference in their school and French schools. Many UK families feel that French schools are much stricter than their current schools. Preparing your child for that possibility will be critical. If they experience such a difference, it could confuse them and even hinder their learning. Although they may be stricter, French schools are also known for their positive learning environments and focus on creativity. Your child will eventually adapt to their new school, but preparing them in advance will ease the process.
Another facet of moving to France that might affect your child is their new diet and new eating habits. Because of longer lunch breaks, many French students go home to eat lunch with their families. This is something that UK children are not accustomed to. Also, their new diet and different foods can come as a shock. Although many people praise the well rounded diet that students get, it can still be confusing to your child. If possible, give your child tastes of French food and acclimatise them to their new diet before the move. This will make their daily routine seem much more normal after moving to France.
One other thing to keep in mind is the language difference. If you are moving to France, it is obvious that you have spent a good bit of time there. Hopefully, your children would be somewhat familiar with the French language. It would be good for them to attend some language courses or meet with a tutor before moving. Going into a different country with no awareness of the language can definitely hinder and confuse your child. They will likely learn their new language quickly, but preparation will be key.
Children are resilient and can quickly learn to adjust. If you are moving to France, it will be important to do everything possible to assist in this adjustment period. Soon enough, your children will be thriving in their new home country.