Childcare in Bordeaux: find the perfect childcare option between daycare, nanny, and home care
Bordeaux, the "sleeping beauty" that has become vibrant, is not just a wine capital: it is a city where childhood is woven between the river, gardens, and schools. However, for parents like Camille Dupont, a young executive who recently moved to Chartrons, organizing childcare often seems like a headache: busy schedule, tight budget, toddler well-being. Good news: the metropolis offers a complete range of nurseries in Bordeaux, nannies, childminders, after-school care, micro-nurseries, and childcare services. Let's explore these options, with pragmatism... and a touch of poetry.
Nurseries: a collective and supervised universe
All over Bordeaux, nurseries welcome children in a socializing environment, led by qualified professionals who ensure their health, safety, and development. Capacity generally ranges from 9 to 60 places, and each establishment follows an educational project validated by the relevant authorities.
There are several types of daycare in Bordeaux: municipal, associative, delegated by public service, company or hospital. The City funds the entire network and even reserves places in certain private structures for Bordeaux families.
The pluses
Stable and secure environment, group life, awakening workshops.
Rates regulated and calculated according to the household's resources (national scale).
Regular care (2 to 5 days/week), occasional or emergency.
There are approximately 2,500 places in municipal and partner daycares: encouraging, but waiting lists remain real.
Testimonial, Hugo Martin, father of Lola (18 months): "The municipal daycare of Saint-Augustin boosts awakening and socialization. Lola learns patience and community life there."
The childminder: the family cocoon
When daycares are full, many parents turn to childminders Bordeaux. Approved by the PMI (Private and Medium-Sized Childcare) and employed by parents, they can accommodate up to four children at a time. Bordeaux has around 600 of them.
They work in their own homes or in a Childcare Center (MAM), which brings together up to four professionals in a shared space, a model encouraged by the City to diversify the offering.
Key role of the RPE (Early Childhood Centers)
Collective awakening times for children and professionals.
Practical information for parents (employer rights, contracts, procedures).
Support for childcare workers (training, accompaniment).
Cost
Negotiated salary + maintenance allowance (and possibly meals). Assistance (free choice of childcare supplement, etc.) significantly reduces the bill.
Testimonial, Sophie Leblanc, childminder in Caudéran: "At home, the space is soft and secure. We do crafts, we go to the park, and we respect each other's rhythm."
Home (or shared) care: flexibility and comfort
Another option: home care. The child stays at home, looked after by a person employed directly by the parents or by an approved organization. In shared care, two families share care by alternating homes.
Advantages
Zero travel, family rhythm respected, care for siblings.
Ideal for staggered schedules (possibility of a full-time nanny or babysitter in Bordeaux).
CAF assistance and tax credits are possible.
Testimonial, Marion Girard, emergency physician: "Our nanny, Claire, takes care of our two children: school pick-ups, meals, flexible hours. She gives us peace of mind every day. " »
Nanny, after-school care, and babysitting: the tailor-made solution
In the city, we often mix: nanny in the morning, after-school care in the evening, babysitter for outings. Bordeaux has specialized agencies for school outings, Wednesdays, and vacations.
The after-school care offered by some schools and leisure centers is economical and ensures educational continuity (homework, activities, friends).
Testimonial, Youssef Benali, entrepreneur: "We went through an agency for a nanny in Bordeaux. She picks up our son from school and takes him to his activities. On weekends, a babysitter takes over."
Micro-crèches and alternative structures: intimacy in the heart of the city
Bordeaux micro-crèches welcome up to ten children in a warm setting. It's the "in-between" option: small numbers, flexible hours, qualified professionals. Fees are often higher than in a group daycare, but assistance can compensate.
Testimonial from Sarah Moreau, director of Bassins à flot: "Our micro-structures offer individualized support while promoting socialization."
Choosing wisely: 4 practical tips
1. Plan ahead. Since January 1, 2025, the City has organized and funded childcare. With ~2,500 places in municipal and partner daycare centers, register early.
2. Compare according to your needs.
Daycare: socialization + regulated fees.
Childminder: family cocoon + flexibility.
Home care: tailor-made service (higher cost, possible assistance).
Micro-daycare: small staff, attractive compromise.
3. Activate the relays. The RPE inform, support, and maintain up-to-date lists (childminders, daycare centers, micro-daycare centers).
4. Optimize assistance. CAF, Department, and tax benefits: run a simulation (e.g., monenfant.fr) to find out your rights.
A personal, evolving… and assumed choice
Choosing a childcare option is an emotional, financial, and logistical commitment. Fortunately, Bordeaux offers diversity and support to help you find the solution that suits you. Between the friendliness of a Bordeaux micro-crèche, the attention of a Bordeaux childminder, the flexibility of a Bordeaux nanny, or the energy of a Bordeaux crèche, everyone has their own path. Childcare services in Bordeaux are constantly evolving: you too can adjust the slider.
Camille Dupont smiles: "At first, I was lost. Today, I know that in Bordeaux, parenting is supported by a caring community. No matter the option—after-school care, babysitter, or micro-crèche—the most important thing is to have a fulfilled and cared-for child."
