Kindergarten

Last week we have finally received our 'Kita-voucher'!

It's been a bit of a mission but to be fair I have to say it was the only time we had to cross a little hurdle in order to get some necessary paperwork done. Everything else from the 'meldebehörde' (department for registration of residence) and 'kindergeldstelle' (family assistance) and 'arbeitsamt' (centrelink/job centre) was pretty straight forward. Unlike expected. 

But anyhow, after going to the 'kita-Behörde' the fourth time last week. Armed with all the paperwork in copy (for the 4th time as well) I finally managed to get to a more than capable and very nice lady to look after my case!

And just as she promised I received the 'voucher' that afternoon. 

Lilla's kindy is right next door to Mila's school and her teachers are just lovely. 

And the best part: Kindergarten from the age of 3 is absolutely definitely entirely free!

5 days a week, 12 months a year: free!

The only thing you pay for is food. And that is with its 23euros a month (!!!!!) quite a bargain as well!

How amazing and absolutely crazy is that?

We've heard it's not like this everywhere in Germany, Berlin seems to be the place to be in that case. But in other cities the last year before school is free and the years before are means tested. 

For now we are enjoying the money we are saving...

Oh and one more thing: every child at day care has their own toothbrush and cup and towel as they all brush their teeth after lunch. How cool is that?!