Moving To Québec With Children: 5 Things What I Wish I Had Known

Moving to Montréal with no local info? Been there.

When I moved to Québec during my second trimester, I had no idea what I was walking into. I thought I was just moving to a part of Canada, but I quickly learned that Montréal—especially the east side near Parc Maisonneuve, where we first lived—was a whole new world of French signs, French-speaking neighbours, and very little English support.

At the time, I didn’t know that the city had invisible language borders. In general, the more west you go in Montréal, the more English you’ll hear. But in the east, French dominates. That makes a huge difference if you’re still learning the language or don’t speak it at all.

So if you’re moving to Québec—especially with children—here are a few things I wish someone had told me:

1. Don’t Just Look at Rent—Look at the Language

Sure, budget matters. But so does the neighbourhood’s primary language. Especially moving to Québec with children? You’re not yet confident in French? Try looking at areas like NDG, Côte-Saint-Luc, or parts of the West Island in Montréal, where English is more commonly spoken. On the other hand, places like Rosemont, Hochelaga, and Villeray are more francophone.

2. Facebook Groups Are Gold

Yes, I know—we’re all trying to use less social media, but hear me out. In Québec, especially for moms, Facebook is one of the best sources for local knowledge and kids’ activities. Join groups like Montréal Moms, Moms in South Shore, or even neighbourhood-specific ones like Rosemont en Famille or South Shore Parents. These groups are full of moms who’ve been through the same thing—immigration, daycare searches, pregnancy care, and more. Just search the name of your neighbourhood + “parents” or “mamans” and you’ll find something.

3. Child Car Seats Are Serious Business

If you’re bringing your child or giving birth here, make sure that you understand Québec’s strict car seat laws. Children must ride in a car seat that matches their age, weight, and height. The SAAQ (Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec) provides detailed guidelines:
👉 Car Seat Rules in Québec (SAAQ)

Many newcomers are surprised to learn that incorrect installation or outdated models can get you fined, even if you’re just doing a short drive from the airport.

4. Free French Classes from the Government

The Québec government offers free French language courses for newcomers. Whether you prefer online or in-person, there are programs designed for stay-at-home parents, workers, and even evening learners:
👉 Learn French with Québec Government

I took the part-time course while raising my baby, and it made a big difference—even just knowing how to talk to a receptionist or pharmacist helped me feel more independent.

5. Essential First Steps for Newcomers

If you’re new to Canada or Québec, here’s a basic checklist to handle within the first few weeks:

Apply for your RAMQ health card
Register your child for healthcare
Apply for child benefits (CCTB / Allocation familiale)
If you plan to work or study, apply for a SIN (Social Insurance Number)
Sign up for childcare waiting lists via La Place 0-5
Find a family doctor or CLSC (local health center)
Open a Bank Account Early
- Opening a bank account is one of the first things you’ll need to do after arriving in Québec. It’s necessary for receiving child benefits, paying rent, and setting up your phone or utility bills. Thankfully, many banks offer newcomer packages that come with fee waivers and bonuses.
  👉 I’ve written a full guide on this with my personal tips and referral codes — check out 5 Best Bank Accounts in Canada for Newcomer Moms (with bonuses & tips!) to make your choice easier and possibly save some money along the way!

Conclusion: You’ll Figure It Out — One Small Win at a Time

Looking back, I wish someone had sat me down and explained all this over coffee. So, if you’re reading this and about to move to Québec, or just got here, know that you are not alone. It’s a beautiful place to raise a family, but it takes time, patience, and yes… a little French.

I’m not a professional immigration consultant—just a fellow mom who’s been through the process. I hope my experience can offer you some comfort and useful tips.

✨ Wishing you all the best on your new journey in Québec! Bonne chance!

Moving to Québec with Children: 5 Things What I Wish I Had Known