Managing Family Life in Germany

Real-life experiences, candid reviews, and practical tips for expat families

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Anja Müller - Expat family life guide in Germany Photo: Cottage Forest Union

Hey, I'm Anja

Relocating to Düsseldorf in Germany turned out to be a true reset for our family. New routines, new rules, and plenty of uncertainties—we had to figure everything out the hard way.

As time passed, we found that Germany diverges quite a bit from the clichés. Family spaces can be wonderfully welcoming—if you know how things work and where to go.

This site is the resource I wish we had before we moved: practical advice, honest reflections, and small details that simplify daily life for families living abroad.

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What We’ve Discovered So Far

These aren’t merely guides — they’re glimpses of actual family life in Germany: what helped, what surprised us, and what we’d change next time.

Family-friendly shopping and daily life in Germany Photo: Cottage Forest Union
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Shopping & Lifestyle

Family Zones in Malls: What Really Works

What to expect when shopping with children, how family spaces are arranged, and small details that save time (and reduce stress) in Düsseldorf.

About 12 minutes Updated: January 2025
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Dining out as an expat family in Germany Photo: Cottage Forest Union
Food & Dining

Dining Out with Kids: Our Top Picks

What “family-friendly” really means locally, how to choose the right spot, and practical tips for smoother meals with kids.

Around 10 minutes Updated: February 2025
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Parks and entertainment for families in Düsseldorf, Germany Photo: Cottage Forest Union
Entertainment

Parks & Play: Local Family Favorites

Low-pressure places where kids can run around, parents can breathe easy, and weekends feel lighter — especially when you’re new to Germany.

8 min read Updated: February 2025
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Family & Education

Schools for Expat Families: How to Decide

A practical method to shortlist schools, which questions matter most, and how to avoid common mistakes families make after relocating to Germany.

11 min read Updated: February 2025
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School choices for expat families in Düsseldorf, Germany Photo: Cottage Forest Union

Helpful Tips I Wish I Had Known Sooner

  • Local routines matter: Communities often operate on daily timetables that can influence shopping, eating out, and scheduling — plan in advance to prevent last-minute stress.
  • Peak hours surprise newcomers: Rush hours can catch newcomers off guard: Weekends and evenings fill up quickly. For quieter outings, head out earlier.
  • Family areas help a lot: Family-friendly areas make a big difference: When present, they usually provide more comfort, more room for children, and a smoother overall experience.
  • Keep one reliable contact: Maintain a single dependable contact: If you need fast assistance or directions, store this number: +49 211 1234567.
Everyday city life for expat families in Germany Photo: Cottage Forest Union