Guiding Family Life While Living in France

Genuine experiences, candid reviews, and useful advice for expat households

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Sophie Martin - Expat family life guide in France Photo: BriskLeafPath

Hey, I'm Sophie

Hi, I'm Sophie

Moving to Paris in France felt like a reset for our family. New routines, new rules, and a lot of unknowns — we had to figure things out the hard way.

Over time, we found that France defies the stereotypes. Family spaces can be incredibly welcoming — but only if you know how things work and where to go.

This site is what I wish we had before the move: practical guidance, candid notes, and little details that make daily life easier for families abroad.

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Insights We've Gained Thus Far

These guides aren’t merely manuals — they capture real family life in France: what worked, what surprised us, and what we’d change next time.

Family & Education

Expatriate Family Schools: How to Pick

A practical approach to shortlisting schools, which questions matter most, and ways to avoid common mistakes families make after relocating to France.

11 min read Updated: February 2025
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School choices for expat families in Paris, France Photo: BriskLeafPath

Quick Tips I Wish I Had Known Sooner

  • Local routines matter: Daily timetables in many places can influence shopping, dining, and appointments — plan ahead to sidestep last-minute stress.
  • Peak hours surprise newcomers: Weekends and evenings fill up quickly. For calmer outings, visit earlier in the day.
  • Family areas help a lot: When present, they usually provide greater comfort, more room for children, and a smoother overall experience.
  • Keep one reliable contact: If you need quick help or guidance, save this number: +33 1 42 68 53 00.
Everyday city life for expat families in France Photo: BriskLeafPath