France expands early childhood facilities in Lyon and Montauban

New early childhood facilities are being established in France to enhance childcare options. In Lyon, the Jeanne Barret municipal outdoor nursery is set to open in June 2026 in the 5th arrondissement. This facility, inspired by Scandinavian models, focuses on outdoor pedagogy with activities such as meals in the grass and naps under trees. The project, costing 1.67 million euros and supported by the Caisse d’allocations familiales, will accommodate 20 children aged 15 months to 3 years. To manage extreme weather, a shelter is available if temperatures exceed 28°C or fall below 5°C.

In Montauban, a new center named Le Petit Ramiérou will open on August 26, 2026. This facility will combine a 24-place nursery for children over 18 months with leisure activities for children aged 2 to 4 on Wednesdays and during school holidays. The project was a winner of the 2023 National Fund for Early Childhood Innovation supported by the CAF, aiming to facilitate the transition between nursery care and formal schooling.