January is a key month to apply for childcare and school spots. If you have recently relocated, are planning a move, or are supporting relocating employees, this is your friendly reminder to act now.
Below is a practical overview of Krippe, Kindergarten, Grundschule, and Schule registration timelines, what to expect, and what to do if you don’t immediately receive a spot.
Krippe & Kindergarten
In Germany, many parents take parental leave during their child’s first year. As a result, children often start childcare around age one, with a settling-in period (Eingewöhnungszeit) beginning shortly before or after their first birthday.
The childcare system is age-based:
- Krippe: for children under 3 years old
- Kindergarten: for children turning 3 within the calendar year up to approximately age 6
Most federal states open their main application portals in January or February for the childcare year that runs from 1 August to 31 July. Missing this window can significantly reduce your chances of receiving a placement.
The focus in both Krippe and Kindergarten is on play-based learning, social development, and routine.
Types of Childcare Facilities
Childcare providers may be: state-funded, church-affiliated, employer-sponsored or parent-run (Elternverein).
You will often hear the umbrella term Kita used to describe both Krippe and Kindergarten.
Another option for children under three is a Tagesmutter. This is not the same as a nanny. Tagesmütter complete certified training, are officially registered, and work from approved premises that are inspected for safety.
Kindergartens may also follow specific educational concepts, such as Montessori or Waldorf (with additional staff qualifications), open-concept group structures or a forest- or outdoor-focused programs (Waldkindergarten).
Fees & Practical Considerations
In many federal states, Kindergarten fees have been eliminated, while Krippe fees are usually income- and location-based. Parents typically pay an additional monthly lunch fee.
In an Elternverein, parents may also be expected to contribute time — for example, helping with meals, cleaning, or administrative tasks. Responsibilities vary by centre.
Visiting Kitas & Applying
Most application processes are now online and coordinated by local authorities, rather than individual centres.
Typical application requirements include:
- Proof of address registration (Meldebestätigung)
- A Kita pass (where applicable)
Priority is often given to families where both parents are working or enrolled in training (Ausbildung).
January is also when many centres host “Tag der offenen Tür” (open house days), allowing families to visit facilities during designated times.
⚠️ Important: Each federal state — and sometimes each municipality — manages its own process. Deadlines, portals, and criteria vary.
Grundschule & Schule:
The January registration-deadline also applies for school applications.
- Grundschule (primary school): Children are generally required to register in the January preceding the school year in which they turn six.
- Secondary schools (weiterführende Schulen): Applications and recommendation-based transitions often begin early in the year, depending on the federal state.
School attendance in Germany is compulsory, and homeschooling is not permitted. Families moving mid-year or from abroad should seek guidance early to avoid delays.
What If You Don’t Receive a Spot?
Even with a timely application, placements are not guaranteed.
When I applied for a Krippe spot for my second child at 18 months, we met the January deadline and already had our older child enrolled in an affiliated Kindergarten. Still, we received notice that no spot would be available for the coming childcare year.
We remained on the waiting list for months. In the meantime, we found a Spielkreis (playgroup) through Haus der Familie in our district. The group was multilingual, welcoming, and became a meaningful social network — several of the children are still classmates today.
If you don’t receive a spot immediately, all hope is not lost. Alternatives exist, and flexibility can open unexpected doors.
Because registration processes can vary by region, early guidance makes a real difference. Our local consultants support families and employers through:
- Registration timelines and portals
- Childcare and school placement strategies
- Alternative solutions if no spot is available
Let us know how we can support your school or Kita application process.