From Local to French Expat: The 10 Essential Parenting ...

Are you a parent planning to move to France? Are you single?

You might be feeling overwhelmed by the thought of relocating to a new country with your family. Actually, you may be telling yourself that you are crazy and that there is no way you can do this!

Don’t worry, I got you covered!

I moved to Lyon, just before my then 6-year-old and 8-year-old joined. I felt very overwhelmed trying to figure out how to get them set up and transition into the French lifestyle. Especially since I was still trying to figure it out myself. So here are some of the top 10 questions that I and other parents came across when we moved to France as expats.

What are the requirements for obtaining a visa to move to France as a single parent with children?

The visa application process for moving to France can be quite complicated, but as a single parent, it can be even more challenging. You will need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of custody of your children. It’s important to research the visa requirements thoroughly and start the application process early. As a tip, you can also join online forums and support groups for expat parents to get firsthand information from others who have gone through the process.

How can I find family-friendly housing in France as a single parent?

Finding suitable housing for your family can be a daunting task, but there are many resources available to help you. Websites such as Seloger, PAP, and Leboncoin offer listings for rental properties throughout France. You can also consider working with a real estate agent who specializes in family-friendly properties. For example, the famous actress Angelina Jolie rented a luxurious mansion in the south of France with her children, after her divorce with Brad Pitt.

What are the best cities in France for single parents to live in?

France has a diverse range of cities, each with its own unique character and charm. Some cities that are particularly popular with expat families include Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, and Toulouse. It’s important to consider factors such as cost of living, quality of education, and access to amenities when choosing a city to live in. As a tip, you can visit the city for a short period of time to explore its ambiance and see if it’s a good fit for your family.

How can I find quality childcare options in France as a single parent?

France has a well-established child care system, with a range of options available for parents. You can choose between public or private nurseries, child-minding services, and after-school care. It’s important to research the options available in your chosen city and to apply early, as spaces can be limited. As a self-reflection lesson, you can also involve your children in the decision-making process and help them adjust to their new environment.

What are the schooling options for my children in France as a single parent?

France has a comprehensive education system, with both public and private schools available. Public schools are free and provide a high standard of education, but the curriculum is taught exclusively in French. Private schools offer more flexibility in terms of language and curriculum, but can be quite expensive. As a tip, you can also consider enrolling your children in language classes or hiring a tutor to help them adjust to the French education system.

Are there any support networks or resources for single parents in France?

Moving to a new country as a single parent can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help you. You can join online groups such as Expatica France and InterNations to connect with other expat parents. There are also many local support groups and organizations that offer assistance to single parents. As an example, the famous expat blogger and author David Lebovitz has written extensively about his experiences as a single parent in France.....

Complete article at original source: Medium @LWInnovations