Quick answer
Important
1. Kita, Krippe, Kindergarten
Kita (Kindertagesstätte) is the umbrella term. Krippe usually means the under-threes, Kindergarten the three-to-six group, and many Kitas cover both. A Tagesmutter or Tagesvater is a registered childminder caring for a small group, often more flexible and sometimes easier to find.
Provision is mixed: municipal, church-run, parent-initiative and private, with different philosophies and different application routes.
2. Register absurdly early
In busy cities, parents commonly register during pregnancy. This is not over-preparation; it reflects genuine shortages. Some cities run a central portal where you list preferences, others require you to apply to each Kita individually, and a few use both.
Find out which system your city uses as soon as you know you will need a place, and register at more Kitas than you think you need.
Important
3. What it costs
Fees are set by the federal state and municipality, and vary enormously: some places charge nothing for certain age groups, others charge income-related fees, and meals are usually billed separately.
Because there is no national price, any single figure you read online is only true somewhere. Your city’s own information is the only reliable source.
4. The settling-in period
German Kitas normally run a structured settling-in phase (Eingewöhnung) over one to several weeks, where a parent attends and gradually withdraws. Plan for it: you cannot usually start full-time work on the first day of childcare.
You will be asked for a health check confirmation and proof of required vaccinations before the place starts.
5. If you are not offered a place
The Jugendamt is the responsible office. Where the legal entitlement applies and no place is offered, it has an obligation to help find one, and parents have in some cases claimed the cost of a private alternative.
Approach them in writing and keep records of every application you made.
6. Frequently asked questions
It depends entirely on the state and municipality, and some charge nothing for certain ages. There is no nationwide figure, which is why we do not give one.
As early as your city allows, which in high-demand areas means during pregnancy. Late registration is the most common reason for missing out.
Proof of measles vaccination or immunity is required for attendance, and Kitas ask for a health check confirmation. Ask the Kita what they need.
Official information
Rules and amounts change. Always verify current requirements using official sources.
Related guides
Amounts and legal requirements can change. We verify this information against official sources and show when each figure was last checked, but always confirm important requirements with the responsible authority before you apply.
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