Many children in Germany spend a part of the day in a "day care institute ». This is a place where children between the ages of 0 to 14 years play and learn together. Most children in Germany visit a such institute before coming to school. So the parents have time to attend a language course or to work. There are many different names for day care centers. The aim of all institutes is the education of the children: the abilities of the children are promoted. The development and the growing up of the children are accompanied. For example, the children learn German here and are prepared for school. These institutes do not replace the family. But they play an important role in growing up children. Here are some of the types of day care institutes available:
- What is a Kindertagesstätte (Kita)?
„Kindertagesstätten“ are day-care centers to which legally established standards apply. - What is a Krippe?
The „Krippe“ cares for children aged 0-3 years. - What is a Kinderhaus?
The „Kinderhaus“ looks after children up to the age of 14. - What is a Kindergarten?
In the „Kindergarten“ children aged 3 years are cared for until they enter school. - What is a Hort?
In the „Hort“ school age children up to the age of 14 are cared for. Mixed age groups are possible. They care for younger and older children at the same time. - What is a Kindertagespflege
In the „Kindertagespflege“ , children are looked after professionally by one person. This person is called day care person. Normally, the children are cared for in the home of the day care person, sometimes in rented rooms. A total of 5 children aged 0 to 14 years can be cared for. Due to the small groups and the care in the house, the care is like in a family. - What does childcare cost?
The day care centers receive money from the state for the care of the children. Part of the costs must be paid by the parents themselves. The costs vary greatly depending on the location and type of care. The parents can make an application in the social welfare office of their municipality or in the youth welfare office of their districts. The parents are then supported in the costs.