Abstract This paper reviews research on child L2 French (cL2) published since 2000 with a focus on research areas and methodology in a broad sense. The aim of the review is to identify methodological trends in the research, to exemplify, and to provide a discussion of prominent features. The review shows that research on cL2 French has mainly focused on the acquisition of morphosyntax based on oral production data. There are few longitudinal studies while experimental research focusing on comprehension and online processing is largely lacking. Despite being a world language, the number of different settings and L1s in cL2 French research is limited. Following trends in bilingualism research, methods for studying exposure and input have developed from an initial reliance on the Length of Exposure measure to more sensitive measures of relative exposure, but there are still few studies presenting any absolute measures of input. In recent years, a focus on the use and development of standardized tests for clinical purposes is noticeable. The review also shows that reporting practices concerning ethical considerations need to become more consistent in the future.