I've been living in France for the past six years and had both my kids here (ages 3 and 4 months), and can therefore relate to the points made by the author. However, I disagree with a couple of things.
We've had the great fortune to get a place in a nursery school for our son, which as Rachelle states, is no small feat. There is a baby boom in France, and the number of spots has not kept pace with the growth in births. We pay 450 euros for full-time care (the cost is based on family revenues, with the maximum being 550 euros/month). While this does seem inexpensive by American standards, keep in mind that the salaries are also incomparable. For example, as an MBA holder with 8-10 yrs experience, I can expect to earn 50K euros/yr (I'm not in Paris).
As for children being welcome in restaurants... I disagree. In fact, I think dogs are more welcome than children in most places. No high-chairs, and often, no place to put a stroller. I don't know about you, but if I have to hold a baby in my lap throughout the meal, I'd rather save my money and eat at home.
Yes, I suppose kids are more disciplined. And when they're not (god forbid your toddler throws a temper tantrum in the street or your newborn cries in public), the dirty looks and comments start flying, especially from a subset of bitchy elderly bourgeois women, who love pointing out your weaknesses as a mother. From a very early age, kids are taught not to question authority, teachers are feared and rarely compliment their students. The flip side? This attitude stays with them into adulthood: don't rock the boat, accept the status quo and the hierarchical work environment. This is not a place to raise entrepreneurs.
So yes, France is certainly more socialized when it comes to child rearing, however, things are never black or white.
