Childcare & Family

Frequently asked questions

How does childcare work in France?

The main options are a crèche (state nursery for ages 0 to 3), an assistante maternelle (registered childminder working from their own home), or a garde à domicile (nanny who comes to you). Crèche places are heavily subsidised but hard to get. Assistantes maternelles are the most common option. Costs are partly offset by CAF family allowance payments and tax credits.

How do I find a registered childminder in France?

Your local mairie or RAM (Relais Assistantes Maternelles) office keeps a list of registered childminders in the area. All assistantes maternelles must be officially agrée by the Conseil Départemental, which involves a background check and training. Hiring an unregistered childminder means losing access to CAF subsidies and legal protections.

Are au pairs common in the south of France?

They exist, particularly in larger family households. The au pair arrangement has specific legal requirements in France: limited working hours (usually 25 to 30 per week), a pocket money payment, a private room, and enrolment in a language course. Many families find it simpler to use an assistante maternelle for regular childcare and keep au pairs for lighter, more flexible arrangements.