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In Potsdam-Mittelmark, early childhood education and caring support go hand in hand. Whether you’re looking for a day nursery, childminder or an alternative option like a forest kindergarten or integrative daycare (IKTB), our district offers a wide range of childcare solutions tailored to your family’s needs. Find out more about the wide range of childcare options and the financial support available to your family.
High-quality, nurturing childcare builds the foundation for a child’s healthy development. In the Potsdam-Mittelmark District, families can choose from a broad range of day nurseries and childminding services tailored to their individual needs. Whether you’re looking for full-day care in a daycare centre or home-based childminding – here, parents will find the childcare solution that fits their everyday life.
Crèches, kindergartens and childminding services offer structured daycare for children from birth until they start school. A variety of educational approaches – from Montessori and Waldorf to bilingual settings – support each child’s unique development. Alongside early learning, children benefit from language support, creative play and physical activity. Overnight care is also available if needed.
Childminding is a home-based alternative to crèches and kindergartens. Qualified childminders look after small groups of up to five children in their own home or in specially rented spaces. This option is particularly suitable for children under the age of three – but can also continue beyond that age. It offers a familiar environment and individual attention tailored to each child.
After-school care provides children in grades 1 to 6 with a structured daily routine – before and after school, as well as during holidays. Educational staff support the children with their homework and encourage them through creative, sports and social activities. In a safe and familiar setting, children can learn, play and build friendships.
The Potsdam-Mittelmark District places great importance on maintaining high standards in early childhood education and care. Our Childcare & Childminding Support Service offers guidance and expertise to daycare centres, childminders, parents and providers through:
✔ Training & professional advice for early childhood educators and childminders
✔ Quality management & concept development for institutions
✔ Ongoing support with educational and pedagogical matters
This way, we ensure that every child receives the best possible care and support.
Choosing the right childcare facility is an important decision for every family. The Potsdam-Mittelmark District provides a comprehensive overview of all daycare centres and childminding services, so parents can make informed decision and register their child with ease.
Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for partial or full exemption from childcare fees. The district provides information on:
✔ Fee exemption for children of kindergarten age (age-based) § 17a KitaG
✔ Income-based fee reduction § 90 Para. 4 SGB VIII and § 50 KitaG
✔ Support for education and participation programs
Further details and application forms are available from your local advisory service.
You must register directly with the provider of the nursery or with the childminder. For childminding services, the Potsdam-Mittelmark District is responsible.
Opening hours are based on the needs of families and are set out in the care agreement with the respective provider.
Information on opening hours is available:
Yes, many nurseries and childminders offer inclusive places. Please contact the provider, the childminder or the local youth welfare office (Jugendamt) for more information.
Children from the age of three until they start school are exempt from the parental contribution (§ 17a KitaG).
Income-related exemptions in accordance with Section 90 Para. 4 SGB VIII and Section 50 KitaG are possible in the following cases:
If the contribution is above the statutory limit according to the statutes, it can be adjusted upon application.
Your local authority (Wohnortgemeinde) determines the scope of your entitlement. If it no longer reflects your actual needs, please contact your local authority. They will reassess your claim. If there are discrepancies, you can file an objection with the District administration.
You are not entitled to a specific childcare place, but you do have a right to appropriate care that meets your needs. Places are allocated by the provider or the childminder. The District administration will gladly support you in finding a suitable place.
Closure periods are usually planned one year in advance and decided by the nursery committee. In urgent cases (e.g. staff shortages), the facility may draw up and publish an emergency plan. The District’s childcare advisory service (Kita-Praxisberatung) is available to assist in such situations.
Since 1st January 2023, overpaid parental contributions must be reimbursed in full or in part by the provider in accordance with § 52 Para. 3 KitaG. Please contact the provider of your facility directly.
