How a French nanny can help your child adapt to life abroad

Moving countries is an exciting business, but there’s no doubt it can also feel overwhelming. For
children, in particular, this significant life change, involving leaving behind a familiar environment,
friends and daily routines and adapting to a new culture, can feel especially challenging.

But if you’re a parent and have recently relocated to the UK, or are considering doing so, there are
plenty of things you can do to make the process easier for your children.

Make communication as open and as transparent as possible from the outset. Tell them your news as soon as you can, to maximise time for processing it and so that they can ask you any questions they have. Be clear as to why you’re moving, and what to expect in the new location.

It’s also important that you acknowledge your children’s feelings, listen to their concerns and answer any questions as honestly as you can. Equally, involve kids in the process as much as you can, whether that’s by chatting in detail about their new school and home, or by including them in
decision-making, for example by letting them choose their new room, and how it’s decorated, or
involving them in packing up.

It’s important that you maintain familiar routines in terms of meal and bedtimes, while also creating some new traditions. Focus on the positivity and excitement of what lies ahead while staying in touch with grandparents and other relatives or old friends through video calls, cards and so on.

How having a French nanny in London can help

Whether you’ve just moved to the UK’s capital or are about to do so, an exciting new life in this
wonderful city awaits. But if you’re relocating with kids, you’ll obviously want them to feel happy
and settled as soon as possible.

Hiring a French nanny in London immediately after a relocation can help in numerous ways:

• Consistency of language: The clear benefit is that, if you speak French at home and your
  children’s English is still a little limited, a French-speaking nanny can make a big difference in terms of linguistic consistency. After a potentially very tiring day of being immersed in the
  new language at school, the kids can come home and relax back into using French. They will find this familiarity hugely comforting and reassuring. At the same time, of course, a bilingual nanny can also be on hand for example to help with English homework.
• Building a new routine: Nannies provide familiarity and a single source of care every day, so children are looked after by the same person and quickly establish a bond with them. At a time of change, this can make a big difference in terms of making children feel more settled
  in a new environment more quickly.
• Flexibility and peace of mind for parents: Of course, moving abroad can be a huge upheaval for grown-ups, too. But having a nanny in place who you know speaks your first language can provide great peace of mind. You will also have the reassurance of knowing your children will be in safe hands, for example while settling into a new job or getting out and about to look at new accommodation. A nanny provides flexible childcare that’s suited to both your needs and your individual parenting style. Equally, if you’re still learning English yourself, you’ll love being able to speak to your employee in your mother tongue.

How French Nanny London can help

If you’re looking for a French-speaking nanny in London, we’re the leading agency for this, and have specialised in supplying these professionals since 2012. We’re here to help you find the perfect match for your family, and, for all the reasons listed above, you’ll find us especially helpful if you’ve just relocated – or we can have your nanny in place for when you arrive.

Get in touch today and we’ll take it from there.