Learning french challenges (Montpellier)

I posted inquiries about schooling in Montpellier back in September Protected content . Now I am asking people for input on challenges they faced with their children in the huge learning curve of learning french.

My two girls are 9 and 11, had very basic french after school lessons last year, and are basically total beginners in the language.

Any suggestions on ways to help them integrate and overcome the language communication barrier, that proves to be most frustrating for them in this transition? They are making friends, but can barely communicate (though this should be incentive for them to learn more, it proves to mostly aggravate and upset them).

Thanks for ANY help on this.