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Find a kindergarten

Selected criteria

  1. I recently arrived in Germany
  2. Address family and children’s needs
  3. Find a kindergarten

It is best to start looking for a Kita place by understanding the local process, rather than choosing one “ideal” kindergarten. Germany has different childcare formats, and application rules, available hours and costs may vary by federal state, city and institution. First decide on the required start date and suitable care format, then check the city portal and Jugendamt contacts, submit applications and clarify details directly with your chosen Kitas. Also prepare your child's vaccination information: for attending kindergarten, you need proof of measles protection or a medical contraindication. If your child needs additional support, discuss this with the institution in advance.

Plan overview

A practical path from choosing a care format to submitting applications and preparing to start at a Kita.

What to do step by step

  1. 1

    Choose a suitable care format

    Compare Kita, nursery and daycare with a Tagesmutter or Tagesvater based on your child's age and the care schedule you need.

    Articles for this step

    Kindergarten in Germany: Kita, Creche, Tagesmutter, and Finding a Place Kindergartens in Germany: How to Find a Kita, What It Costs, and What Parents Should Check
  2. 2

    Find out how registration works in your city

    Check the city or district website, the city registration portal and Jugendamt contacts.

    Articles for this step

    Kindergartens in Germany: How to Find a Kita, What It Costs, and What Parents Should Check Kindergartens in Germany: Kita, Enrollment, Costs and Alternatives for Parents
  3. 3

    Submit applications and contact the institutions

    Apply through the available channels and ask the Kita about waiting lists, vacancies and the next steps.

    Articles for this step

    Kindergartens in Germany: Kita, Enrollment, Costs and Alternatives for Parents Kindergartens in Germany: How to Find a Kita, What It Costs, and What Parents Should Check
  4. 4

    Prepare your child to start attending

    Plan for settling into a new language environment and collect vaccination records for a doctor's review in advance.

    Articles for this step

    Children's Adaptation in Germany: Daycare, School, and the German Language Vaccination in Germany: STIKO Schedule, Measles, Impfpass, and Vaccines for Children and Adults

Important notes

  • Procedures, deadlines and costs depend on where you live.
  • Check proof of measles protection before your child starts attending a Kita.

Common mistakes

  • Limiting yourself to one institution
  • Delaying your search