Moscow is a dynamic city with a lot to offer but it can seem quite daunting and, due to many preconceptions, one that foreigners might fear. Expat life is, however, thriving and any newcomer with children can enjoy Moscow and its wonders.

Babysitters/nannies

Most expat families have nannies to help look after their children. The main choice when interviewing prospective nannies is whether to choose a Russian nanny or other nationality nanny (for example Filipino). Both options have their pros and cons. A Russian nanny might be able to help you with other daily tasks such as ordering water over the phone and enrolling your child in a Russian detsky sad (kindergarten). Filipino nannies tend to be more willing to do household work as well as childcare, and you might prefer to have an English speaker. The duties you expect your nanny to fulfil, as well issues concerning the salary, should be made clear from the beginning. Most nannies are hired through word of mouth but there are some good agencies that can help, including www.family-care.ru.

 A combination of stairs and slides in a children's playground in Moscow

Finding suitable schools or kindergartens

Expats with school age children should make sure their package includes adequate education cover as the international schools in Moscow are expensive. Many expats with younger children and those on local packages choose Russian detsky sads (kindergartens) and schools, which is certainly a cheaper option and generally more convenient as there are many of them.

After a few months immersed in a Russian speaking environment, younger children generally find it easier to learn the new language. Children under school age usually cope well and start understanding and speaking Russian relatively quickly. This gets harder as the child gets older so you might prefer to keep your child in an international school.

There is a comprehensive list of the international schools at www.childreninmoscow.ru with the most popular ones being the Anglo-American School, English International School and International School. Some of the schools have waiting lists so it is advisable to contact them as soon as you know you might be moving to Moscow. Most of the schools require the child to pass an interview and, for older children, information from their previous school may be required.

How safe and child-friendly is Moscow for families?

The Moscow streets are not particularly pram or wheelchair friendly but people are generally happy to help parents carry prams down the underpass and Metro steps. Moscow does, however, offer a lot of nature compared to other major cities, from forest parks and heritage sites to riverside beaches. During the colder months, there is plenty of indoor entertainment available, with play areas, puppet theatres, good restaurants, swimming pools and art clubs.

Overall, Russians adore children and going out as a family is not unusual; children are welcome almost everywhere. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a cold winter weekend, children will enjoy being out and about on their bikes or sledges, enjoying the melting snow puddles in spring and the falling leaves during the changing seasons.

The Russian school summer holidays run for three months from the end of May to 1st September. Most Russians send their children to their dachas (country houses) to live with their grandparents, or to summer camps. Many expat families also choose to go on long summer holidays back home, so the city can seem very quiet and child-free during the summer months.

Moscow is fun place and exciting to place to live and I hope your users enjoy living here as much as my family and I have over the last few years!

www.childreninmoscow.ru
Photo credit: kyllaris