What is an average day like for French babies?

Child-rearing in France, Sophie's Homeland

Bonjour!

Today, we'll talk about France, the country where Sophie the Giraffe was born.
Walking through the streets of France, you'll encounter families with babies in various places, such as cafe terraces, parks, and markets.

"What's a typical day like for French babies?"

Today, let's take a peek into French parenting with Sophie.

The Start of the Morning

"Bonjour!"

The family's day begins with this greeting. Of course, mornings in households with babies are bustling in France too. Changing clothes, eating, heading to daycare, or getting ready for outings with mom and dad. Even if the country is different, the scene of mornings revolving around babies is the same as in Japan.

The French friends who hosted me seemed to prioritize taking things at their own pace, even while busy. I felt that there was less of the "you must do this" or "you must do that" mentality compared to Japan during the morning hours.

Babies also venture out into the world

On sunny days, taking a stroll with a stroller. Going to a bakery for freshly baked baguettes, shopping at a market filled with gently fragrant flowers and vegetables, or visiting a park where people are leisurely lying down. Babies blend into ordinary daily life. The sight of parents enjoying their time with their babies, without worrying about what others think, was impressive.

Cafe Time Together

When you think of France, you think of cafes. You picture adults enjoying conversations on sidewalk terraces. And right beside them, you'll see babies in strollers. The idea that having a baby doesn't mean parents' lives completely change, and that adults can still dress up and enjoy their own time, somehow makes me sigh with admiration.

In French parenting, the idea of respecting children as "individuals" from an early age seems to be valued. Even if the baby is still small, instead of parents doing everything for them, they observe the child feeling, thinking, and gradually growing on their own. Not interfering excessively and supporting their growth from an appropriate distance. This approach, rooted in French parenting culture, is believed to foster a child's independence and autonomy. It's quite difficult for me as a Japanese person... I feel the cultural difference.

Nevertheless, the diligent way they cherish their babies is the same as Japanese moms and dads, I thought, reflecting on everyday life in France.

French babies and "Doudou"

When talking about French babies, there's a word I'd like you to know.

That is, "Doudou".

Doudou refers to a beloved object, such as a stuffed animal or cloth, that a baby or small child cherishes.

Hugging it tightly, taking it out with them. Just having it by their side brings a sense of security. The "precious friend" varies for each child. Some love it so much they take it everywhere. Such a sight is also very cute.

Sophie the Giraffe Doudou
Always by baby's side, a constant friend.

Sophie, always a companion

Sophie the Giraffe has long been a part of many babies' daily lives.

When playing at home.
When strolling with a stroller.
When going out with family.

Clutched tightly in tiny hands, she might be spending time with a baby somewhere today. Not just on special occasions, but in the ordinary everyday.

Being such a presence is Sophie's greatest joy.

Cherishing "Ordinary Days" with Your Baby

Life with a baby isn't always fun. There are mornings when things don't go as planned, and nights when they just won't sleep. There might even be days when you think, "I didn't get anything done today." But for the baby, being held. Going for a walk together. Gazing out the window. Hearing Mom and Dad's voices. Each of these ordinary moments is a precious part of their daily life.

In France, and in Japan too.

What's needed for life with a baby isn't always special things.

We spent another day together.

Wouldn't it be wonderful to enjoy daily life with your baby, finding such small joys?
Next time, we'll bring you another little story from Sophie's homeland, France.

Until then.

À bientôt!