Kita — Kindergarten in Germany (How to Secure a Place)

Types of Care

After Kita, the child goes to school; many parents look for a place to return to work after Elternzeit.

Rechtsanspruch — Right to a Place

Every child from completing their 1st year of life has a Rechtsanspruch (legal right) to a childcare place, regardless of whether parents work, with a minimum of 6 hours per day (longer if required by work/studies). You submit the application not directly to the facility, but to the Jugendamt (youth welfare office). If you don't get a place, invoke this Rechtsanspruch with the Jugendamt — if necessary, it can be enforced through the courts.

Costs (Kitabeitrag)

The Kitabeitrag (childcare fee) depends on the state and family income — in some states the final year before school is free. Families receiving Bürgergeld, Wohngeld, or Kinderzuschlag are usually exempt from fees (ask at the Jugendamt). A place in Kita often depends on your registered address — register early (Anmeldung) and enroll your child well in advance.