How well-equipped is this city for those raising infants/toddlers? Specifically, are there public places to change diapers, maintained playgrounds, etc?
Lausanne is equipped similarly to many large cities in Europe. Like everywhere in Switzerland, the playgrounds are maintained daily. Many restaurants, gas stations and supermarkets are equipped with baby-changing stations.
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Where can I get a list of reliable childcare providers/nannies?
The best list is maintained by the Lausanne-Famille, which has a website (in French only). If you need any help, please feel free to contact Crown Lausanne.
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Discuss any safety issues for children in this city.
There aren't any issues that are out of the ordinary. Basically, you can't go wrong with exercising caution around traffic and just being aware of what children are up to.
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What are the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the area?

  • The Olympic Museum – The world official museum for the IOC
  • La Vallée des enfants in Lausanne – A wonderful playground for children in the heart of Lausanne
  • The Swiss Games Museum in La Tour-de-Peilz
  • Musée du Léman - The Lake Léman museum in Nyon
  • Aquaparc in Le Bouveret – The largest water park in the French part of Switzerland
  • Swiss Vapeur Parc in Le Bouveret – A beautiful park for model railway fans
  • Evionnaz Adventure Labyrinth - The world’s largest natural labyrinth
  • Fun Planet in Villeneuve – A big place to play for children of any age
  • Signal de Bougy – An immense park designed for relaxation and recreation with a full range of activities for all ages.

During the summer:

  • Luna Park near Lausanne-Ouchy
  • Paléo Festival in Nyon
  • Montreux Jazz Festival
  • Festival de la Cité
  • Fête de la musique

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What are the most popular activities for kids after school or on weekends?
Usually schools are very well informed on the various types of activities that children can participate in after school or on weekends.

"L’association des parents d’élèves" will inform parents on available activities for children.

In the winter, the most popular activity is skiing. During the summer months, though, children tend to accompany their parents on walking or cycling excursions.
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What's it like to be a teenager in this city? Are there any particular challenges I should be aware of as a parent?
Note that the drinking age in Switzerland is 18. Your children will not be allowed to buy any alcoholic drinks or cigarettes before 18 and the cashier will ask for an ID card if they are not sure about the age.
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Are there any organizations/social groups in the area that cater exclusively to young people ages 12-17?
Boy Scouts of the Canton de Vaud support activities. This organization offers adventure, amusements and activities to develop a sense of responsibility for boys ages 6 – 18. There is also a co-ed adventure program for ages 14 to 20, with an emphasis on high-adventure activities. Programs are centered at local schools. Contact: Christophe Pinget.  Phone: 0878 877 983
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I want my child to get the most out of our stay in this country. Are there any specific opportunities to teach young people about the local culture?
As for learning the language, young people can either learn it in school or take special language courses.  The best way of learning a language, however, is to be surrounded by people who speak it. This is also a good way to assimilate into the local culture.

The school will also offer some activities for your children during the summer holidays.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.