Reliable English-speaking childcare for families visiting the Dordogne

Meet Nanny Jenny

Safe hands. Happy children. Relaxed parents.

Whether you're planning an evening out, attending a wedding, or simply hoping for a few hours of grown-up time, I'd love to help make your holiday in the Dordogne just a little more relaxing -and a little more memorable too.

Jenny with children enjoying a nature adventure in the Dordogne River
Jenny holding a sleeping child during an evening of holiday childcare in the Dordogne

Hello, I'm Jenny

I'm a 57-year-young Irish mum, proud grandmother, and qualified primary school teacher. For the last nine years I've been lucky enough to call Calès, near Trémolat in the beautiful Dordogne home. Sadly, my own grandchildren live in Ireland, so I don't get to see them as often as I'd like.

Spending time with children has always been one of the greatest joys of my life, and caring for families who are enjoying their holidays here feels like a wonderful way to combine two things I love.

Throughout my life I've worked with children in many different ways- from teaching in primary schools and running a preschool crèche, to organising children's holiday programmes, working as an au pair in Spain and England, and creating successful babysitting services in both London and the French Alps. And, of course, the most important job of all - raising my own daughter!

Whether I'm caring for a baby, a curious toddler, a primary school child or a young teenager, my aim is always the same: to help every child feel safe, relaxed, happy and completely themselves while giving the grown-ups the freedom to enjoy their time too.

Looking after children has never really felt like work to me.

It's simply always been part of who I am.

A calm, caring & experienced presence

Children are all wonderfully different, and I believe every child deserves to be met exactly where they are.

Some are excited and full of energy. Others take a little longer to warm up. Some love adventure, while others are happiest with a story, a game or a quiet conversation.

Children tend to feel comfortable with me very quickly. I have a calm, kind and patient nature, and I always take time to build trust at their pace. My aim is for every child to feel safe, relaxed and genuinely happy while they're with me.

I believe children thrive when they feel both free to have fun and are also secure in a gentle, familiar routine.

Whether we're playing, exploring, reading stories, making crêpes, splashing in the pool, or winding down for bedtime, I bring warmth, laughter and calm, together with the kind of healthy boundaries that keep children safe and help them to feel settled and secure.

Jenny caring for a 16 month old girl
Jenny sharing fun and cuddles with children during a family holiday.

Every holiday is different...

Every child is different too.

Some love exploring. Some enjoy making things. Others are happiest reading stories, chatting, playing games or simply spending time outdoors.

There isn't a timetable or a programme. Instead, I gently adapt to each child, their age, their personality and the rhythm of your family's holiday.

Depending on your child’s age, interests and energy, our time together might include exploring forest paths, paddling by the river, looking for butterflies, enjoying the swimming pool, playing games, reading in the shade, getting creative, gathering wildflowers or picking up a few French words through everyday conversation.

Nothing forced. Nothing over-planned. Just warm, relaxed care with a little sense of adventure.

Why parents choose Nanny Jenny

  • Qualified Primary School Teacher (PGCE)

  • Experience caring for babies, children and young teenagers

  • Fluent English and French

  • Calm, kind and dependable

  • Creative, active and young at heart

  • Excellent local knowledge

  • Full driving licence and own transport

  • Police check available

  • References available on request

  • Civil liability insurance

Jenny gathering wild sage with older children during a family holiday in the Dordogne.

Simple, flexible pricing

Every family is different, so I'm always happy to discuss your individual needs.

€25 per hour

Minimum booking: 3 hours

Longer holiday bookings and wedding childcare packages available on request.

I'd love to hear from you

Whether you're planning a special evening, attending a wedding, or simply looking for a little extra help during your holiday, I'd be delighted to hear from you.

If you have any questions or would like to check my availability, just get in touch. I usually reply very quickly.

Some more happy memories...

Jenny enjoying time outdoors with children in the Dordogne.
Jenny carrying a sleeping child after a busy day together.
Jenny having holiday fun with 3 young boys.

Based in Calès, near Trémolat, Dordogne I provide English-speaking childcare for families on holiday.

© 2026 Jenny Grainger

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