Ask any parent in Germany what the hardest part of family life is, and many will say: finding a Kita place. It can feel like a competition, and the waiting lists are real. But there is a lot you can do to make it easier, and your child has a legal right to a place.
Let me explain how it works.
What Is a Kita?
Kita is short for Kindertagesstätte, a daycare centre for young children. Most families see two stages:
- Krippe: for babies and toddlers, usually under 3.
- Kindergarten: for children from about 3 until they start school.
Another option is Tagespflege, a childminder who cares for a small group in their home. This is often easier to find, especially for the youngest children.
Your Child Has a Legal Right to a Place
In Germany, children are entitled to a place in daycare from their first birthday until they start school. In practice, the number of places differs a lot from city to city, so having the right does not always mean it is easy to get one. Knowing it helps you ask the right questions at the Jugendamt (youth welfare office).
When Should You Apply?
As early as you can. Many families register their baby long before the start date, and some start looking during pregnancy. If you have just arrived, do not wait. Start the same month you register at your address.
What You Need First
- Your Anmeldung (registered address). See our Anmeldung guide.
- Your child’s birth certificate and passport.
- Your child’s vaccination record. By law, children cared for in a Kita must show measles protection. Babies under one year can be admitted without proof; from age one you need proof of at least one measles vaccination, and from age two proof of two. Ask your doctor.
- Proof of health insurance for your child. See our health insurance guide.
- Proof of work or study of the parents, which some places use for priority.
Step by Step
1. Find your city’s system
Most cities use an online portal where you register your child and choose Kitas. Search for “Kita Navigator” or “Kitaplatz” plus your city name. Some cities also need a care voucher (Kita-Gutschein) from the youth welfare office first.
2. Register your child and choose several Kitas
Apply to many centres, not just your favourite. More choices mean better chances.
3. Visit and make contact
Many Kitas hold open days. Introduce your family, ask about the process and send a polite follow-up message. Being known can help.
4. Attend the introduction meeting
If you are offered a place, you will meet the staff and sign the care contract. Read it, and ask if anything is unclear.
5. Plan the settling-in period
Most Kitas ask parents to stay with the child for the first weeks as the child slowly gets used to it (called Eingewöhnung). Plan your time off work.
What Does It Cost?
Costs vary a great deal. Some federal states and cities have free or very low fees, others charge according to income and the hours your child attends. Meals may be extra. Ask the Kita or the youth welfare office what you will pay. Part of childcare costs can also help at tax time; see our tax return guide. Do not forget to claim Kindergeld as well.
Tips for Newcomer Parents
- Language is not a barrier to a place. Kitas welcome children who speak little German, and daycare is a wonderful way for children to learn it.
- Ask for help at the Jugendamt. They can sometimes suggest available places or childminders.
- Keep a list of every application, date and reply.
- Be persistent but polite. A friendly reminder every few weeks is normal.
- Have a plan B such as a childminder, while you wait.
Common Mistakes
- Applying too late, or to only one Kita.
- Missing the vaccination proof. It can hold up the contract.
- Not registering at your address first. Most portals need it.
- Not reading the contract, including notice periods and closing days.
When Your Child Turns Six
The next big step is school. Read our guide to registering your child at school in Germany so you know what is coming.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Entitlements, fees and procedures differ by state and city, and they change, so confirm details with your local youth welfare office (Jugendamt) or city Kita portal.