Kids and Family in Moscow

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area's volatile political situation.

Expats moving to Moscow with children should prepare for a sizeable challenge. Conquering the cold weather and the intimidating transport system with little ones requires some real courage.

That said, there are plenty of child-friendly activities available in the city. Several expat support systems exist to help calm any parent's nerves against unanticipated stress. 

Family life in Moscow

The long months of freezing temperatures in Moscow inevitably affect family life and limit the outdoor activities one can enjoy. Few Russian families and children can be seen out on the streets in winter unless they are heavily bundled up. That said, ice-skating is a common activity for children and adults alike in winter.

Traffic in Moscow can be a real problem. People drive fast and there are few above-ground places to cross larger roads. So, if using a stroller, this means tackling stairs to enter and exit the pedestrian-friendly underpass. Baby carriers may be a preferred option.

The metro is extensive, cheap and easy to use but, again, expats should bear in mind the presence of stairs. Once familiar with the most common metro stops, parents will be able to choose those with no stairs and make life a little easier.

Many expats hire a driver to avoid these issues and to make it easier to get around in freezing temperatures. Expats should try and negotiate this as part of an employment package, if possible. 

Best places to live in Moscow with kids

When searching for accommodation in Moscow, expats with children should think carefully. Many expats with kids, especially those with young children, choose to live in one of the gated expat communities just outside the city. In these areas, it’s possible to get a house and plenty of green space, but exposure to real Russian life will be minimal.  

Alternatively, expats can live in an apartment in the city centre. Although this does not offer a garden, Moscow has a lot of green spaces and parks that are child friendly. Apartment living in Moscow is typically better for expats with teenagers or with children who would be interested in enjoying any of the rich cultural activities on offer in Moscow’s centre. 

Entertainment for kids in Moscow

As noted, frost-free months of the year are scarce in Moscow. As a result, most of the entertainment options in the city are indoor activities. When the sun does come out, there are some great outdoor spaces to take advantage of.  

There are plenty of parks in and around Moscow’s city centre, and it's also possible to find small playgrounds, boulevards and smaller gardens dotted about. Gorky Park is the big, centrally located park for cycling, rollerblading or running, as well as having various rides for amusement. Hermitage Gardens is a perfect place for kids to play. Many expats meet up here in summer and spring.

Shopping malls are a great way to get out of the house in winter. Many malls have play areas, bowling clubs, cinemas and other activities to keep kids entertained. For a real taste of Russia, expats should try ice-skating on one of the frozen ponds or head out of the city and go dog-sledding.

Cultural activities for kids in Moscow

Moscow is the perfect place to introduce children to Russian culture with its world-class ballet performances and assorted theatres. Child-orientated venues include the fairy tale theatre, science museum, children’s musical theatre and many more. At these attractions, children can be entertained and learn at the same time.

Brunch in Moscow might be a far cry from the well-practised, well-priced extravaganzas found in Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi, but there are plenty of weekend venues that combine food with child-friendly entertainment, especially in winter.

Parent networks in Moscow

Moscow’s many challenges mean that the expat mothers' networks in the city are especially valuable support systems. There are baby and toddler groups hosted almost every day of the week. The best place to find them is to join the International Women’s Club or to contact the British Women’s Club baby and toddler coordinator. If considering having a baby in Moscow, other mothers are more than happy to help navigate the system and provide advice.