Raising children in Mexico
Many Mexicans' lives, young and old, revolve around family issues. Children are accepted on most social occasions, from large neighborhood gatherings to small intimate gatherings.
Even if you relocate to Mexico with the entire family, including your kids, you will have no trouble finding activities for them to participate in, and taking them out will be a real treat. While the Mexican education system has its flaws, enrolling your children in school will provide them with an excellent chance to learn Spanish and about Mexican culture and make new friends.
Family activities in Mexico
Mexico has a multitude of family-friendly activities. Aside from daycare and public schools, you may also hunt for family-friendly local entertainment. You might see spontaneous clown shows, concerts, seminars, and more. Remember to leave a tiny tip as a sign of respect.
The circus is thriving here in Mexico, with nomadic troupes setting up shop in abandoned fields or mall parking lots. Although often late-night gatherings with lots of drinking, unusual and delectable delicacies, and live music, town fairs also have enough to offer youngsters during the day, such as skill games, miniature mechanical attractions like roller coasters, and a variety of sweets to pick from.
A day at the park is another enjoyable family activity. Playgrounds, environmental and cultural exhibitions, and even zoos may be found in many Mexican parks.
You are welcome to bring a picnic basket and toys and spend the entire day. And, of course, all youngsters enjoy a day at the ocean, which is a popular pastime for Mexicans on their days off. Here is more information regarding traveling around Mexico.
Childcare in Mexico
Although government-run childcare centers exist in Mexico, private daycare is significantly more widespread and less complicated. Search for escuelas pre-escolares (preschools) and jardin de niños (kindergardens). If you reside in a fraccionamiento (gated community), perhaps a childcare center is on-site.
In most situations, preschools and kindergartens will not have any restrictions. However, they may request the kid's original birth certificate to prove their age.
Depending on the school's size, the technology they use, and the neighborhood, fees may differ. Spanish will be the language of instruction at all school activities, although many will also include English.
Finding a nanny or au pair in Mexico
If both parents are working, hiring a nanny or babysitter is most likely something you will have to consider as well. Obviously, you wouldn't want just anybody to watch your children, so finding a trustworthy person is very important. There are plenty of websites like Sitly.com where you can choose from highly recommended nannies throughout Mexico. In Mexico, you would call them “niñera” and the usual pay per month will be around 500 USD, depending on your location.
You can also opt for an au pair and publish a post on sites like greataupair.com, if you prefer hosting a person from abroad that lives with you full-time and speaks your language.
Schooling in Mexico
If a child wishes to attend public or private grade school (primary, secondary, or high school) in Mexico, they must hold legal resident status. The CURP identification number will be required to enroll in the school. Find out more about higher studies in Mexico. Whether you decide on sending your kids to a public or private school will probably be a money-based decision.
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