My name is Maryanne . I am married with

Hi Maryanne,Big WoW ! We would have never, never thought of doing this with our youngest daughter (one of two), but that would have been many years ago. After eventually doing so ourselves after the girls has flown the nest we would likely think about it a lot differently now and would certainly not say “never”. So many things come to mind that are negative or issues, but perhaps it’s a time to concentrate on the positives and I’m sure you are already trying to tackle any obstacles by coming on here. I have alluded to the experience of our time spent here and that’s the main positive I would concentrate upon. We would not change a moment of our experience these last five years has brought to us. A totally different view on our own past and future and a much better understanding of who we are and where other people are coming from.However I’m sure you are well aware of the above and want practical help. Really we would not have a clue where to start. We have not yet been to Verona, but it is on our “to do list”. Siena we have been to a number of times and our oldest daughter was married there. A beautiful town without the nostalgia of the wedding being held there and to us a lot more homely than Firenze. However from what you have said I would have thought Verona may be a better choice if skiing is to figure in your plans, horse riding and cooking I would think you will find anywhere in Italy.Hopefully others on here can give you more advice on things like schooling, accommodation, travel, visa requirements. However it may be a good idea to list those things you have already thought about, sorted and those things still to be sort. That way it may prompt people to provide advice on other matters.As for your Italian being rusty I’m sure you will have no problem picking it up again.Hope I’m not being rude here, but you may want to reconsider you pictures being on an open forum like this or any other for that matter.Anyway, all the very best to you and your family on your adventure where ever it may take you.

Large Lewis, Thank you for talking the time to respond. Good feedback I have taken down my photos. Using this site for the first time I did question the photo box which seemed a compulsory "step two" before completing my post. perhaps not !!I don't find the concept of taking my daughter to Italy daunting at all. Logistically I couldn't  have considered it when all 3 kids were in school so now is a good time. I lived in Italy for three years but many years ago so I have an understanding of the challenges of a foreign country but I only had myself to think about so this venture is a more considered experience.I shall think through full time school placement verses short term language/cultural lessons which are available in various cities and post more tangible questions. Good advice.Just thought I would see who else in this community has taken a year out with their kids and might like to share some good advice. This is about giving my daughter a good education as well as the foreign cultural experience of Italy.kind regards