Quick Guide to Family Life in France
France is a beautiful and romantic country with a rich cultural heritage and unique family values. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking for a different way of life for their family. Here is a quick guide to family life in France – from everyday activities to the laws and regulations you should be aware of.
Culture and Traditions
French culture and traditions hold a special place in French family life. With its long-standing Roman Catholic heritage, France has a very strong sense of family, with parents taking an active role in the upbringing and education of their children. These traditions are still seen today, with most French families holding regular celebrations and ceremonies.
Daily Life
French daily life revolves around family, with most meals eaten together and television or games being enjoyed as a group. Shopping and general errands are usually done together as a family, followed by leisure activities and outings. School is also an important part of daily life, and children attend primary school for up to 11 years.
Holidays
France celebrates a range of public holidays throughout the year. These include special days such as Bastille Day, Labour Day and Victory in Europe Day, as well as Christian holidays such as Easter and Christmas. School holidays are also an important part of the year, with three long school holidays of six weeks taking place in the summer, autumn and winter months.
Laws and Regulations
France’s laws and regulations are designed to protect families, ensuring that all members receive the same rights and privileges. For instance, parents are entitled to up to 30 days of paid leave for the birth of a child, and unmarried couples with children can apply for several benefits and discounts. Additionally, French parents are required to have their children immunized and have regular check-ups with a medical professional.
Childcare
In France, childcare is considered to be of great importance. As a result, there are a wide range of options available to families. These include public daycare centres, private nurseries, nanny share programmes, and au pairs. Additionally, for parents who wish to stay at home with their children, there are plenty of public and private services and classes to help.
Education
Education is highly valued in French culture, and children are expected to achieve academically. Primary and secondary education is mandatory, and students are also encouraged to attend university or undergo vocational training. Additionally, a range of extracurricular activities are offered within state schools and at private establishments, giving children the chance to explore their interests outside of the classroom.
Cost of Living
Living in France can be a costly affair, with goods and services priced higher than in many other parts of the world. However, families can benefit from a range of discounts and tax breaks, such as family allowances and reduced prices for certain goods. Additionally, there are plenty of government-funded services available to assist with childcare and education fees.
The Pros and Cons of Family Life in France
Pros
• France offers a beautiful environment for families to live in
• There are plenty of benefits for families, such as parental leave and tax breaks
• A good education system, with a range of extracurricular activities to get involved with
• Affordable childcare options
Cons
• The cost of living can be expensive
• The rigid academic system can be a challenge if children are not naturally academically inclined
• The French language barrier can be difficult to bridge
• Smaller communities may not be as welcoming of non-French families
Living in France can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience, with plenty of benefits and opportunities on offer. From the beauty of the country to the rich cultural heritage, there is much to explore and discover. Though the cost of living can be high, there are numerous benefits available to families, making it an attractive place to call home.
