Moving to Zurich area

Welcome and Introductions
1
We are considering a move from Dallas, TX area to Zurich during the first couple of months this year. We have two kids (8 & 9 yr old). While we are very apprehensive about the move we are excited about the prospect of exploring new surroundings & culture.

We found this forum around Xmas time and see a lot of good information we can use. Thanks.

Has there been any discussions about benefits of enrolling kids in public schools vs. international schools ? Any thoughts/pointers to other threads that discuss this topic would be much appreciated.

- Giri

2
http://www.englishforum.ch/tags/

school and schools might interest you

3
Hi Giri and welcome to the forum, a place of eternal wisdom What a move - from Dallas to Zurich, wow!

Yes, there have been many discussions about kids in public or international schools. Try the search function . A short version goes like this: If you consider staying for a short period (1 or 2 years), international schools might be ok whereas if you intend to stay longer, public schools are the first choice. Consider that social contacts are easier to make for children as most (if not all) children in your neighbourhood go to the same school.

4
Good luck with your move! We moved here from the States over 2 years ago and I went through the same thing with my boys. We didn't have a choice between international schools and local because of the expense so they went to the local school. I am so happy we did now. It was difficult in the beginning. (My boys were 7 & 3 at the time. It took about 6 months and my, now 10 yr. old, to be fluent. It was harder making friends in the beginning but we moved here for the experience. It's been worth it Good luck!

5
Hi Giri,

I am also American, moving to Wettingen near Zurich from Jan 12- March 4 and would like to offer my babysitting services to you if you are in need! I am a 24 year-old female from Boston, graduated from Northeastern University in Boston, and will be looking for temporary employment while I am in Swiss. If you need a sitter for your 2 kids, I'd love to talk to you!

-Brooks Wallace