Celebrating Christmas abroad is a unique experience: between local traditions and French customs, expatriates often create their own family rituals.
But when it comes to choosing gifts for children, one question arises: how can you give them something meaningful and enjoyable while keeping a connection to France and their roots?
Here are five ideas that are fun, heartfelt, and cultural—perfect for a magical holiday season, even far from home.
Children’s books and picture books in French
A classic, but an essential one.
Giving books in French is more than just a gift — it’s a way to nurture language, imagination, and culture.
Depending on their age, you can choose:
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Illustrated storybooks for the little ones (like the tales of Petit Ours Brun or Claude Ponti),
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French comic books (Astérix, Lou!, Les Sisters…),
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Children’s novels (Harry Potter in French, Le Petit Nicolas, or the classics by the Comtesse de Ségur).
It’s also a special moment to share: reading together in the evening, laughing at familiar expressions, and passing on the musicality of the French language.
A cultural box from France
Several French brands now offer monthly subscription boxes for children, delivered worldwide.
They often include craft activities, magazines, recipes, or items related to French culture.
Among the popular options:
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Les Petits Français (fun and educational activities about French culture),
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Envouthé Kids (tea and storytelling for parents and children),
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Or creative boxes with art supplies and language games.
It’s a lovely way to receive a little piece of France in your mailbox each month.
A French board game
Board games are perfect for sharing family moments while keeping the French language alive.
Brands like Djeco, Asmodée, and Haba offer games that are easy to carry and fun for all ages.
A few ideas: Dobble, Time’s Up Family, My First Carcassonne, or Le Lynx.
The advantage: the rules are often available in several languages, but you can keep the joy of playing in French.
A “sensory” gift to reconnect with France
When living abroad, some children may sometimes feel nostalgic for a place, a smell, or a taste.
Giving a small “made in France” box can therefore be a heartfelt gift: a sweater from a French brand, a light perfume, Caran d’Ache crayons, a box of madeleines, or a handcrafted wooden toy.
The idea is simple: to recreate a touch of French sweetness through the senses, even under another sky.
An experience rather than an object
Children often remember moments longer than toys.
Give them a special experience:
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A pottery or local dance class,
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A family outing to a typical place in the host country,
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A “100% French Christmas” day with film, music, cooking, and French-style games.
It’s a wonderful way to weave traditions into their daily life while inspiring a love for discovery and sharing.
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