Lyon Young People

How well-equipped is this city for those raising infants/toddlers? Specifically, are there public places to change diapers, maintained playgrounds, etc?
Lyon offers everything you need to raise children, from basic needs to education and interesting entertainment. A favorite for toddlers are public parks, which have well-maintained playgrounds and are peaceful spots for activities and interaction with French children.
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Where can I get a list of reliable childcare providers/nannies?
The local mairie (town hall) provides useful lists, including information about garderies , or daycare
centers, which will take care of children from 3 months to 6 years old for a few hours a week. These can be good places for newcomers to meet people. Babysitters are usually found through agencies or personal referrals. For further assistance, contact Crown Lyon.
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Discuss any safety issues for children in this city.
Lyon is a safe environment for children, though it is recommended that you speak to your local school to find out whether there are any particular concerns specific for your area. Children should always be accompanied and supervised by an adult and should never talk to strangers.
Also, remember to exercise caution around heavy traffic areas.
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What are the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the area?
Some fun and cool places to spend the day are:

  • Birds Park - Villars Les Dombes 30 minutes from Lyon
  • Zoo of St Martin la Plaine - 45/60 minutes from Lyon
  • Fun Island - located in Lyon / Bron

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What are the most popular activities for kids after school or on weekends?
Besides the activities already mentioned, children also have the opportunity to spend time at local public libraries which are of a high standard in Lyon. French TV has many programs to entertain and educate kids as well.
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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?
Being a teenager in Lyon is similar to other places. As mentioned above, they love to spend time with their friends and do fun things.
Adjustment to any new place takes time, but we feel once they get settled in and meet new friends, they are going to love it here!
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Are there any organizations/social groups in the area that cater exclusively to young people ages 12-17?
The local mairie (town hall) also publishes lists of extracurricular activities. Each arrondissement (district) has at least one centre d'animation (activity center) that offers all kinds of classes and evenconcerts geared for that age range.
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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 children are able to learn foreign languages easily and French is the main spoken language, encourage your children to make friends and socialize with local children. It may be a great opportunity for your child to become bilingual.

In public schools, an effort is made to have a special teacher a few hours a week to teach French to children between 7 and 15. This is organized, upon request, by the school itself.
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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.