AU PAIR
In France
About France
Ready to channel your Emily in Paris vibes? France brings together history, romance, and culture in a way that feels straight out of a movie. Just picture wandering through a country that boasts 37 UNESCO World Heritage sites – yes, thirty-seven iconic wonders calling your name. Along the way, you’ll find yourself drawn to postcard-worthy cities like Paris (bonjour, Eiffel Tower selfies!), Toulouse, Strasbourg, Bordeaux, and Lyon. Plus, whether you’re savoring a quiet moment in a cozy café, relaxing on a sandy coastline, or adventuring through the snowy Alps, France delivers pure chef’s-kiss perfection. Beyond the cities, the countryside is equally enchanting – think lavender fields, rolling vineyards, and landscapes made for your dreamiest Instagram posts. In short, France isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a full aesthetic. So, pack your beret, embrace every moment, and prepare to live your most fabulous French fantasy.
What is an Au Pair
Ready to step into your Parisian dream and become the ultimate big sister? As an Au Pair in France, you’ll trade ordinary routines for warm family dinners, new friendships, and unforgettable adventures. Alongside those moments, you’ll enjoy French lessons, weekends in charming cafés, and trips to castles that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale.
You’ll offer childcare in exchange for free room, meals, a weekly stipend (your baguette budget is safe), and a contribution toward a French language course – oui, you’ll be speaking with flair before you know it!
All in all, this experience becomes far more than a job. It’s a cultural glow-up that welcomes you into a family, not a workplace, while gifting you memories, stories, and possibly even that irresistible French accent. Ready to begin your ooh-la-la chapter? Let’s make it real!
See What Other Au Pairs’ Experiences Are Like.
Here’s Eliz’s story about her experience in France!
Au Pairing in France
By Eliz
Choosing France Over Other Countries
At first, I imagined myself au pairing in the United States. With so much media fixated on the glamorous “American Dream,” I barely considered other destinations. Still, the excitement didn’t feel quite right. I’ve always been captivated by culture, art, history, and music – everything that gives life its richness. When I spotted France listed as an option on Carla’s website, everything clicked at once. It felt like fireworks.
Naturally, choosing France became the obvious decision.
Overcoming Fears and Obstacles
The idea felt enchanting, yet almost too good to be possible. As a result, I started imagining every obstacle. How would I handle the language? Could I adapt to unfamiliar customs? What if I didn’t fit in with the pastries, the snails, and the oh-so-European lifestyle? And yes, I even wondered whether the stereotypes about French people being unfriendly were true.
Now, thinking back, it seems funny that France ever felt uncertain.
Learning the French Language
A new language can be daunting; however, it becomes incredibly rewarding. There’s nothing like the moment you suddenly understand a sentence that felt impossible months before.
Adjusting to French Culture
French culture takes some getting used to since the contrast with South Africa can be striking. Still, the differences make the experience a true adventure. You’ll be amazed by their eating habits – two of their four meals often involve pastries, biscuits, or chocolate. Somehow, the French stay effortlessly slim. How? You’ll have to go and uncover that mystery yourself!
Understanding the French People
People often describe the French as cold or snobby. While first impressions can seem that way, they rarely reflect reality. Friendships may take time to build, but once someone lets you into their world, the bond becomes lifelong. A small tip: be polite, avoid behaving like a stereotypical tourist, and you’ll be just fine.
My Experience as an Au Pair
To be honest, my original goal wasn’t childcare – I simply wanted to discover another country and experience life like a local. In the end, I achieved exactly that. Fortunately, the children I cared for were wonderful, and taking care of them felt a lot like being with my own younger siblings. If your first placement isn’t ideal, don’t give up; switching families is always possible.
I also had a cozy studio separate from the family, which meant I could explore Paris freely. Explore I did – and fall in love I did.
Life After Au Pairing in France
Today, I’m studying for my Bachelor’s in Cultural Mediation at L’Ecole d’Art et de Culture. On top of that, I now live in an apartment with a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, speak fluent French, and have built a wonderful community of friends – French and international. Above all, I’ve created memories I’ll cherish forever.
A Message to Future Au Pairs
I’m not saying everyone who au pairs in France will stay permanently, but I am living proof of the doors this program can open. I’m endlessly grateful to Carla, who supported me at every step, especially during the overwhelming paperwork phase. Without this program, my life today would look very different.
Vive La France!
Real talk – Au Pair in France
Au Pair Requirements.
Here’s what you need to make it happen. Check out the essentials:
- To begin, the ideal age range of 18-27 sets you up perfectly for a fulfilling year of learning and adventure.
- While a driver’s license isn’t mandatory, it becomes a great advantage if you’re imagining scenic countryside drives.
- Additionally, a Grade 12 certificate (or equivalent) shows you’re prepared for the commitment and responsibility ahead.
- Any childcare experience gives you a strong foundation – especially if you’re already familiar with routines like bedtime and meal prep.
- Even a beginner level of French is enough to apply for your visa; a short introductory course is all you need.
- Most importantly, a genuine love for children helps create the warm, nurturing environment families value.
- A full year in France ensures you have enough time to settle in, build connections, and experience the culture deeply.
- Good physical and emotional well-being allows you to embrace each moment with confidence and ease.
- Being single with no children keeps your focus entirely on enjoying and growing through this adventure.
- The ability to swim is essential, especially for summer activities, pool days, and beach outings with your host family.
In essence, we’re looking for optimistic, adaptable, and caring au pairs who truly enjoy working with kids.
How it works
Here’s how the journey unfolds – from your first click to sipping a warm drink in a French café:
- To get started, fill in your forms and send them to us online or via email – simple and fast.
- Then, pay the sign-up fee to secure your spot in the program.
- Once that’s done, we process your documents and forward them to our French partner agency – opening the door to exciting opportunities.
- Before long, host families will reach out for interviews through Skype or phone, giving you the chance to find your perfect match.
- After matching, pay the placement fee, and we’ll guide you step-by-step through the visa process, which typically takes 2–4 months.
- With your visa approved and flights booked, you’re ready to head off and begin your unforgettable French adventure!
If you need anything along the way, we’re always here to help you make this dream a reality.
Camerodene hits France
Au Pair Responsibilities.
Here’s your backstage pass to what your au pair routine truly looks like – a lively blend of joy, structure, and heartfelt moments you’ll remember for years. From morning greetings to bedtime giggles, your days may include:
- First, stepping into the role of snack squad leader – preparing meals and tasty treats that keep little adventurers energized and happy.
- As the day unfolds, becoming the homework hero – turning tricky assignments into encouraging breakthroughs and helping kids feel proud of their progress.
- During mornings, guiding the rush with calm confidence – organizing outfits, backpacks, and cheerful send-offs that set a positive tone.
- Throughout the week, acting as the chore champion – keeping playrooms and kids’ spaces tidy, inviting, and ready for fun.
- Across it all, balancing a flexible schedule of 30 – 40 hours per week while still enjoying plenty of time for cafés, sightseeing, and weekend adventures.
By the end of your stay, you’ll master the ideal mix of structure, fun, and heartfelt connection – creating meaningful memories for both you and the children.
What is included in the Au Pair program?
Here’s everything wrapped into one magical package to keep your au pair journey stress-free, smooth, and wonderfully stylish. Each perk is designed to support you from your very first bonjour:
- To begin, flight assistance helps you travel confidently with guidance from our trusted travel agent.
- Alongside that, fellow au pair meet-ups give you instant community and easy friendship-building right in your new neighborhood.
- Your furnished bedroom provides a warm, private retreat inside your host family’s home.
- Ongoing agency support ensures you have reliable assistance and encouragement throughout your entire stay.
- Your weekly pay of 80-90 Euros keeps your café outings and croissant cravings happily covered.
- Civil Liability and Repatriation insurance offer reassurance so you can explore safely and confidently.
- Each week includes a full day off plus an additional week of holiday every six months for relaxing, traveling, or spontaneous mini-getaways.
- Your room and board are fully taken care of, giving you comfort, delicious meals, and peace of mind every day.
- Carla’s Pre-departure Pack adds a fun collection of practical goodies to kick off your adventure in true au pair style.
Once everything is in place, your French story is ready to begin – tighten those backpack straps and let the adventure unfold!