Here are some ways to pass the precious time. 

Join a group

While your routine changes, many of your friends’ routines will remain the same--that is, they’ll probably be working while you are on leave. Consider joining a group of like-minded people to share the joys and trials of parental leave. There are several local groups on Facebook--for example, The Luxembourg Daddy Group and Luxembourg Parents--which regularly organise playdates. An “EltereCafé” (parent café) is also organised in Esch-sur-Alzette during designated hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, where parents can meet over a warm drink and swap stories.

Get in shape

Even if it’s just walking, exercise is a great way to get some fresh air and burn off that extra baby weight--which dads can put on too! Several local yoga studios offer baby-parent yoga, while The Little Gym offers a diverse lineup of music, sport and gymnastics classes for children aged 4 months to 12 years.

Travel

Whether you visit the grandparents or take a parent-child trip to a completely new destination, travelling with your little one provides a unique experience that will test your patience, but equally offer unforeseen rewards. It’s a great way for children to be exposed to new cultures and languages… just be sure those vaccinations are up to date and, of course, take precautions as necessary, for example by booking supplemental insurance.

Get those to-dos done!

Whether you’ve been putting off making family photo albums of your family life or organising paperwork for your little one, this is a good time to get those tasks done--that is, if your little one manages a nap from time to time!

Relish the moments

It may not seem like it when you first take your leave, but the weeks or months will fly by. Enjoy them!

This article first appeared in the print version of the Delano Expat Guide 2019-2020.