CHILDCARE

PARENTAL CARE

Whether state-funded or private, there are several different childcare options available in France.

CRECHES

From the age of 3 months, children can be sent to nurseries (crèches). No matter where you live, you are strongly advised to put your name down in advance, as demand can often outstrip supply. These public centres are funded by local authorities, with parents paying an additional fee depending on their level of income. Most crèches are open 11 hours a day, closing only for public holidays and for a month over the summer period. For more information consult your local town hall (mairie).

NANNIES

If you can't find a place for your child at a crèche, there is also the option of employing a nanny. Your local mairie will have a list of state qualified nannies (assistantes maternelles) who may look after children at your home or theirs.

Alternatively, you can employ a private nanny. Many agencies specialize in providing bilingual staff. To employ a nanny for more than 5 hours per week you need to declare yourself as an employer, and pay all the associated social security charges. These charges are nearly always tax deductible. You can obtain the relevant forms from your bank, a post office, or the local treasury office (comptable du trésor).