The testimony of a single father in Lyon.

My name is Julien, I'm 39 years old, and I'm a father of two. Thomas, 8, is a little boy passionate about science and dinosaurs. Mila, 5, is a budding artist who dances everywhere she goes. We live in an apartment in Lyon's 3rd arrondissement. It wasn't the original plan… but life had other plans.

Two years ago, their mother left. One morning, she packed her suitcase, left a note, and disappeared from our lives. I was left alone. Alone with my children, my responsibilities, and my job as an executive that I couldn't abandon.

Many people underestimate this situation. It's not just a separation. It's a complete rebuild, done in a rush, with fear and exhaustion. Every day was a never-ending sprint.

My job requires me to have late meetings because I have video calls with our office in California. I also travel frequently. This creates a heavy mental workload. But at 6:00 PM, the school daycare closes. That's the first major obstacle I've encountered.

Before, I never left the office before 7:00 PM. Suddenly, I found myself leaving with the stealth of a ninja at 5:00 PM. I felt that my boss's gaze had begun to change.

I stopped talking, I stopped listening… I was just ticking boxes to survive. And one day, Thomas said to me, “Dad, you don’t smile like you used to.” It was a real wake-up call. I realized I couldn’t do everything on my own.

Finding a babysitter: a chaotic journey

I started by improvising. I asked the neighbors, the mothers outside the school, even my colleagues: "Don't you know anyone?"

Then I posted ads on free websites. And that's when reality caught up with me.

The first babysitter canceled 15 minutes before school let out! Then the second, a lovely student, but always 20 minutes late. The third forgot to give them their meal! Another left the children alone in front of the TV for hours. And I'm not even going into all the details.

Every time I entrusted my children to someone, I spent my time with my phone in my hand, ready to jump at the slightest message. I no longer trusted anyone.

The emotional exhaustion of the single parent

What isn't said often enough: loneliness isn't just the absence of a partner. It's the absence of support, help, and a helping hand. No one to say, "I'll take care of it." No one to step in when you break down.

No one noticed I was heading straight for disaster. I sometimes cried silently after they were asleep. I started to wonder if I was a good father.

I knew I needed help, but not cheap help. I wanted the right person to look after my children.

The turning point came thanks to a home childcare agency.

A colleague, who is also separated, told me about in-home childcare agencies.

I thought it was a service for wealthy families. Yet, the idea has taken hold. Finally, professional babysitters, trained, supervised, and vetted.

So, I took the plunge. And today, I wonder why I waited so long.

Meeting with a trusted professional

The agency assessed my needs. Primarily, I needed school pick-ups four days a week. This included managing homework, baths, meals, and simple activities. Additionally, I needed flexibility in case of unforeseen work commitments.

A week later, I met Elise through the home childcare agency .

An experienced childcare provider, trained in safety and pedagogy. We clicked immediately. She asked questions about allergies, bedtime routines, the children's favorite games… things no one had ever asked me before.

My children took to her naturally. Mila took her hand as she left. My heart ached… but for the first time I felt safe.

A real transformation of everyday life

Thanks to the support of an in-home childcare agency, my life has changed. No more panicked lateness to school. Homework is done before I get home. The children eat dinner at regular times. I can breathe, work without guilt. The family rhythm has become more peaceful.

But above all, I'm rediscovering quality time with my children. Not stressful time. Time to laugh, talk about our days, play games, truly live.

Thomas told me one evening, "Dad, you're back to how you were before." I almost burst into tears.

Why I recommend a home childcare agency.

Because it's safe, because it's professional. But above all, because our children deserve it.

This is not a wasteful expense. It is an investment in stability and family happiness.

I became a single dad out of necessity. Today, I am a single dad by choice and with pride.

Because I'm surrounded by a team that keeps me going. A word to all the parents reading this: if you're alone with your children, if you're constantly pressed for time, if you're afraid to delegate, I understand. I've been there. But you have the right to help. You have the right to breathe. Your children have the right to be well cared for. Don't give up. Keep searching until you find the partner who will restore your confidence. For me, it was an in-home childcare agency. And it was the beginning of a new life.

As a bonus, we brought Elise on holiday with us. She's part of the family.