Kindergarten & Kitagutschein in Berlin made simple: a guide for international parents

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So, you’ve got a small human in your life and now you’re trying to find a spot in a Berlin daycare (Kita). Welcome to one of the city’s most competitive sports.

This guide shows you exactly how to apply for a Kita‑Gutschein, search for available Kita plätze, and maximise your chances; even in a tough market.

kita gutschein and kita spot guide, english guide for daycare in Berlin

Use the comments section if you have any questions. I answer each one of them personally.

Basic Berlin Kindergarten facts you should know

It’s difficult to find a Kindergarten spot in Berlin, but it’s getting better

The simple reality is: there is a steep shortage of Kita spots in the whole city. Why?

  1. Berlin’s population is currently experiencing a sharp population increase, after years of stagnation. What’s more: young people have been flocking to the city because of (once) cheap rents. Most of them eventually settle down and start having kids.
  2. The demand is increasing while the offer is not following, also because it’s hard to find Erziehern (caretakers) to take care of the kids. It is estimated that 8500 educators are missing.
  3. However, stress on daycare in Berlin is very district-dependent. There are no waiting-lists in Lichtenberg but plenty in Pankow or Neukölln.
  4. Finally, a recent trend suggests that demand might fall in the long term, making competition slightly less gruelling.

Start your search (very) early

With this in mind, let’s start with the most important factor to find a kita spot in Berlin first: timing. It’s no secret. The earlier you start contacting Kitas, the better your chances are. The current shortage forces you to sign-up for waiting list as early as possible.

It used to be enough to start looking shortly before due date. Nowadays, it’s not rare to have parents start the process in the middle of the pregnancy. This makes sense because most Kitas will take kids only from 1 year-old.

How much a Kita daycare cost in Berlin

Unlike most other states in Germany, Berlin is financing KiTas 100%. This means that you don’t pay yourself. However, expect the KiTa to request 20€ to 60€ to cover some expenses (museums, outdoor activities, meals & more).

It may also be more if special attention is paid to meals or snacks. As a parent, you have the possibility to opt out of those costs.

How to get a Kita Gutschein (childcare voucher) in Berlin:

What is it?

It is basically a voucher provided by the city that states how much childcare your kid will get at a Kita. This is how the KiTa knows how much money they will get from the city in return, when taking on your child. It is the paper connecting you, the Kita and the city. Some Kitas won’t accept you on the waiting list unless you have one already. Although, considering the dire situation, I have found that many Kitas don’t have this requirement. Useful to know:

  • You can get one maximum 9 months before the child care starts and need to have it sorted at the latest 2 months before.
  • Children under 1 are eligible to a voucher granting 4-5 hours of care per day.
  • Children over 1 are eligible to a voucher granting 5-9 hours of care per day.

Who is eligible?

Any child is eligible for daycare in Berlin if they are registed in Berlin & is not going to school yet.

Applying for a Kita Gutschein in Berlin

The process for getting a Kita Gutschein in Berlin is fairly easy in nature and it can be done online here. It is essentially a form asking you:

  • How many hours (4-5 hours, 5-7 hours, 7-9 hours or 9+ hours of childcare per day)
  • What your income/resources are.
  • Which situation do you have (employee, student, freelancer, etc).
  • Who the legal guardians are, etc.
  • Your working hours. This is easy for employees but a bit annoying for freelancers as you can’t just give in your employment contract for proof.
  • You will also need to provide a copy of basic documents such as birth certificate, Meldebescheinigung & a copy of ID card/passport.

You will fill the form online, but you will still need to send it by post to your local Jugendamt (Youth office).

When your application has been accepted, the Kita Gutschein in Berlin remains valid only for 3 months, which means you will need to apply again if you haven’t gotten a contract with a Kita within that time span. Without it, you can’t sign a contract.

A few more remarks:

  • It is your legal right in Berlin to receive at least a 7-hours Gutschein.
  • Since your child has another language than German at home, that grants you automatically an extension of the Gutschein.
  • Most daycares will favor children with 7+ hours Gutscheine because they receive more funds doing so.

How to secure a daycare sport for your child

Step 1 – Find ALL KiTas in Berlin around you

A good old Google search, paired with a physical scouting of your area and recommendations from friends can already do wonders. Added to that, you can turn to:

  • Official Berlin search portal. Kita navigator lists options around you and lets you know if there are upcoming open spots. Using the advanced search, you can even filter down by languages, pedagogic styles & more.
  • Kita.de
  • HeyAva.de
  • Kita Spot Berlin: A Facebook page & updated (paid) database that periodically publishes free spots.
  • International families in Berlin: A good Facebook group to look for recommendations in your area, especially for international/bilingual ones.
  • Kita in Berlin: Another pretty active Facebook group. Parents helping other parents. It’s less international.
Kita-Navigator is a great project that allows to search for a kita visually on a map.

Step 2: Apply early and persist

  • Send out inquiries. Introduce yourself, mention your child’s age and when you’re hoping to start. Keep it short, friendly, and ideally in German (Google Translate is your friend).
  • Follow up regularly. If you don’t hear back, send a polite reminder every 6 to 8 weeks. Yes, it feels awkward. Do it anyway.
  • Visit in person, if you can. A friendly face can go further than an email buried in someone’s inbox. Bring your child if possible-it makes things more real for the staff.
  • Be flexible. Consider nearby neighborhoods, part-time hours, or bilingual/private options to improve your chances.
    • Keep track of everything. Create a spreadsheet (this is Berlin, after all). Dates contacted, replies, follow-ups, vibes. You’ll thank yourself later.

Step 3 – Get accepted & settle in (Eingewöhnung)

When a spot finally becomes available, you will be invited in to sign a contract, with a start date. Congrats!

  • Don’t expect to drop your kid off on day one and run. The Eingewöhnung (settling-in period) is a slow and gentle process-for your child and probably for you too.
  • Plan for 2 to 4 weeks (sometimes more). During this time, you’ll gradually step back while your child builds trust with their new caregivers. At first, you’ll stay in the room. Later, you’ll wait outside. Eventually, you’ll be free (ish).
  • Be flexible with your schedule. If you’re working, let your boss know this isn’t a one-and-done situation. It’s a phase. A slow, slightly chaotic phase.
  • Expect a few ups and downs. Some kids adjust quickly, others take their sweet time-and that’s perfectly normal. Even if they’ve been social butterflies at home, Kitas are a whole new world.

Which daycare is right for my child in Berlin: quick guide

The term Kita (Kindertagesstätte) covers different types and forms of childcare in Germany. This is a quick overview to understand the different types:

Kita daycare options in Berlin overview

Krippe vs Kindergarten

You will encounter both terms during your search. Put simply; Krippe is where kids under 3 years old go. They then go to Kindergartens until they are old enough to go to school. Some Kitas have both groups within their buildings, some have Kindergartens and not Krippe. They often also have different opening times.. Depends.

The different structures & operators

Privately operated (Freie Träger)

Associations

These institutions are offering different approaches concerning pedagogy with kids, often coming from their particular nature/history. They are operated by associations, religious communities or charities. If you want your kid to be educated within a certain community, this might be good option. Some examples:

  • Deutscher Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband – Dachverband vieler kleiner Träger
  • Deutsches Rotes Kreuz
  • Arbeiterwohlfahrt
  • Diakonie
  • Caritas
  • pro familia
  • SOS-Kinderdörfer
  • Zentralwohlfahrtsstelle der Juden in Deutschland e.V.
  • Internationaler Bund – Freier Träger der Bildungs-,Jugend-, und Sozialarbeit e.V.
Eltern Initiative

When there is a need for more spots and parents talk to each other, they might want to start organizing their own KiTa. This is what the term “Eltern Initiative” (Parents’ initiative) covers. It’s then operated through an association (“Verein”) managed by the parents themselves. This also allows for greater flexibility in the education and in some cases, a higher level of care. However, there is a catch. One of the conditions to get a spot is often to contribute your own time and resources to run the whole thing (buying supplies, bookkeeping, gardening, renovation works, etc.). It’s a great way to be involved in the community.

For profit companies (GmbH)

Although it might be unusual to place kids in a structure run by a company, they offer equally good environments for the development of the child. Daycare centers in Berlin like these are under scrutiny by local authorities and must provide a strict standard of service as well as a pedagogy framework.

Kindertagespflege – Tagesmutter

This another form a childcare provided by single persons, often women, hence the term Tagesmutter. They provide childcare in the environment of their own home, often along side their own children. It usually offers a greater time flexibility and a somewhat more personal approach. It won’t be a group of 10 or 15 kids.

City operated  (Öffentliche Träger)

Daycare centers in Berlin that are working under direct contract with the local authorities.

The different education & pedagogic style​s

Regardless of the structure, the Kita must follow a basic set of requirements, when it comes to educating and stimulating kids. It is a framework defined by the Berlin senate around 6 themes; health, social and cultural life, communication, arts, mathematics, nature & environment. You can find more info about it in multiple languages here.

However, each Kita has the freedom to set their own ways to get there. This is why you must not hesitate to ask about how they do things, the daily routine, the outings, etc. This is why you will probably encounter different methodologies such as Montessori or Waldorf. Here are the most common ones and very short summaries.

  • Situationsansatz: This is about letting the kids decide what to do, depending on their current interests and their own curiosity
  • Montessori-Kinderhaus: The focus is to develop a sense of own responsibility with each child, by providing a supportive learning environment
  • Freinet-Kindergarten: One trusts the instincts of the child and build upon them, about cooperation too
  • Waldorf-Kindergarten: Focus on intellectual, artistic development
  • Reggio Emilia-Kindergarten: Priority given to experimentation
  • Waldkindergarten: Nature Kindergarden in the outdoors
  • Bewegungskindergarten: Pushing for physical activities and movements

See for yourself with a open house

To see the place for yourself and feel the vibe, most daycares in Berlin will have 2-3 open day/house days per year, during which you will be able to meet the personel and see the different rooms. It’s a great way to get insights on what’s going on. In German, it’s called “Tag der offenen Tür”.

What are the alternatives until you get daycare in Berlin

​If you haven’t planned ahead, it’s unlikely you will get a kita spot right away (unless you have good connections or ​a ridiculous amount of luck). In the meantime, you will have to come up with a plan B until you obtain the holy grail. As foreigners away from home, we cannot rely on the help of close relatives like grand-parents. You can instead turn to the following options.

Krabbel- und Spielgruppen

​Meaning “crawling and play” groups, they are simple initiatives from parents​ meeting in cafes or other public places to let babies socialize with one another. I grant you; it won’t free up your time since you have to keep an eye on your child. However, it will make up for the lack of social interactions with other kids your child may experience, especially if it’s your first child. It will also allow you to chat with other parents, exchange experiences and tips. Sometimes, you may also hear about neighboring Kitas, how good they are, what you should do to get in, etc. It’s a good entry point into your local neighborhood and you might feel less alone in the impossible task of finding a kita spot in Berlin.

You can search krabbel groups in Berlin on this page, or these Facebook groups: 1 and 2.

Tagesmutter

As mentioned above, Tagesmutter could prove to be an excellent alternative if you need a helping hand, with added flexibility. There is a search engine for this here and plenty of other websites such as this one here. Beware though: for a lot of people, this is the next best option after getting a Kita spot in Berlin. There is also a high demand for that. It might also be clever to start your search and make calls early.

Babysitters

Not a lot of people know this but if you are registered with the Jugendamt, you can ask for a babysitter to be paid while you are looking for a Kita. They help you to pay a babysitter at a rate of about 600€ per month! That could be huge help to bridge the gap. Take advantage from this! More info there.

How to improve your chances to get a spot

Staying on the top of the waiting list

Make sure to ask the KiTa manager how to proceed there. It’s usually best practice to call every 3 months or so, to confirm again that you are still interested in a spot. However, some don’t like this. It’s best to ask what their preference is. And make a list with plenty of reminders!

Many applications

There aren’t any rules but most will mention a number between 5-10 applications at different daycares to be sure to get a spot. Remember that you will need to follow-up with each one of them. It’s a time intensive business.

Reaching to the Jugendamt

If you’re struggling to find a spot, contact your local Jugendamt. They can assist or even allocate a spot in extreme cases.

Visit Kitas in person

Some directors prioritize families who show initiative and interest. A friendly visit or follow-up call can leave a good impression. However, do this in a sensible manner: make an appointement and don’t show up unannounced.

Network with other parents

Join local parenting groups on platforms like Facebook (e.g., “Parents in Berlin or International families in Berlin”) or through ones of the Krabellgruppe mentioned above. Ask other parents for recommendations and insights on available spots.

About costs Kitas in Berlin

To that regard, we are pretty lucky in Berlin because it was made completely free for all kids. This is not the case everywhere in Germany. The only part that you have to pay is a contribution for the food; about 25€ per month, and sometimes small additional fees for extra activities.

Making the situation change

​This situation sucks, there are just not enough kita spots in Berlin. Every year, thousands of kids aren’t able to find a spot. If you want to commit and make the situation change​, you can go sign the petition and demonstrate. More info here.

I wish you all the best for you and your child. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in the comments if you need more info how to apply for a Kita Gutschein in Berlin or how to find daycare in Berlin.

Finding a Kita in Berlin – FAQ

Can I get a Kita spot in Berlin if I don’t speak German?

Yes, many Kitas in Berlin are welcoming to international families and some offer bilingual programs. However, communication with staff and application processes are often in German, so it may help to have a German-speaking friend assist or use translation tools.

When should I start looking for a Kita in Berlin?

You should start searching for a Kita spot as early as possible-ideally 12 to 18 months in advance. It’s common for parents to begin during pregnancy due to high demand.

What documents do I need to apply for a Kita voucher (Kita-Gutschein)?

You’ll typically need your registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung), your child’s birth certificate, proof of employment or training, and your passport or ID. Requirements can vary slightly by district.

Is daycare in Berlin free?

Yes, daycare (Kita) is free for children in Berlin for up to 7-9 hours per day. However, parents usually pay a small monthly fee for meals, which is around €23 per child.

How do I increase my chances of getting a Kita spot?

Apply to multiple Kitas, follow up regularly by email or in person, and consider flexible hours or locations. Building a relationship with Kita staff can also help improve your chances.

What if I can’t find a Kita spot in time?

If you’re unable to secure a Kita spot, contact your local Jugendamt (youth welfare office). They have a legal obligation to help you find a place, especially for children over one year old.

Do I need a Kita voucher for private Kitas?

Most private and public Kitas in Berlin require a Kita-Gutschein. However, some fully private institutions may operate outside the voucher system and charge full tuition.

What is Eingewöhnung and how long does it take?

Eingewöhnung is the settling-in period for your child at the Kita. It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks and involves gradually increasing the time your child spends there with support from a parent or caregiver.

Sources and references

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