First, I'm an older female, in excellent physical condition. About 20 years ago, I lived in Toulouse for nearly two years. My French language is pretty good -- I communicate well but probably not with the best grammar -- around C1 level, probably.
I'm going to France in September for a month, at least, possibly longer. For the first two weeks, I'll have my daughter, possibly son-in-law, and definitely my four-year-old granddaughter (nearly 5 at that time). For a "home base," I (we for the first two weeks) plan to stay in some smaller town somewhere south of Paris (I haven't figured out where exactly yet but definitely not a touristy place), and they'll stay with me there. Then for their last three days, we'll all be going to Paris to be tourists for a few days. I've heard there are great playgrounds in the Luxembourg gardens for children, so we'll do that, of course. Any more suggestions for activities for children?
Also, if you have any suggestions about a rather small, not too southerly, town I might choose to make my home for a while, I would appreciate any suggestions. I'm looking for a medium-sized apartment that will accommodate all of us while my family are with me and then just for me after they are gone. I prefer to take only trains for traveling and will probably rent a bicycle to use in the smallish town I choose.
The goal of my trip is just to live somewhere for at least a month, possibly up to my allowed three months, and improve my communication skills, enjoy living in a different environment for a while, and quietly paint (I'm an artist by profession). I don't intend to do any touring around after my family are gone and hope to get acquainted with neighbors in whatever town I choose.
Thank you so much in advance for any advice or info.