Before registering, you should visit the daycare center in person with your child. Getting a firsthand impression like this helps you better assess the atmosphere, the routines, and how the children are treated. After this visit, the following questions may help you make a decision:

• Do the teachers seem dedicated, and do they regularly participate in professional development?
• Does the facility’s educational philosophy align with your expectations?
• How are parents involved in the day-to-day operations of the daycare center, and does the expected level of involvement fit your situation?
• Are roles and responsibilities clearly defined within the team?
• Do the premises offer enough space for physical activity as well as for privacy and quiet?
• Is the equipment age-appropriate and designed to be stimulating?
• Are children from different grade levels cared for together?
• Does your child have more than one primary caregiver?
• Have the teachers been working at the facility for quite some time, ensuring continuity in care?
• Are the children primarily cared for in fixed groups or according to an open-group approach? And which model is a better fit for your child?

Legal Right to a Daycare Spot (Under 3)

Since 2013, children from the age of one until their third birthday have had a legal right to support and care at a daycare center or through in-home child care. This right is enforceable and is intended to enable parents to receive child care that meets their individual needs.

Parents have the right to express their preferences and make choices, and can indicate whether they prefer childcare at a daycare center or with a child care provider. However, this entitlement applies only to the extent that space is available on site. The reasonable distance to the childcare facility also depends on local conditions; travel times of up to about 30 minutes each way are often considered reasonable.

The legal claim must be filed in writing with the appropriate youth welfare office. We recommend registering about six months before your desired start date for childcare. In cases of exceptional hardship, shorter deadlines may apply. A separate application is required for each child. In addition, since 1996, children over the age of 3 have had a legal right to this benefit.

After the review, you will receive a written notice from the Youth Welfare Office. Appeals may be filed against decisions that deny or limit a request. The information on available remedies and applicable deadlines can be found in the notice of appeal. It is essential to adhere to these deadlines.

Since the legal and factual requirements vary greatly depending on the situation, it may be advisable to seek individual legal advice; if necessary, a specialized law firm can provide assistance. Various online information portals also provide an initial overview, clearly outlining the possible legal avenues, such as here on the Advofleet website regarding lawsuits for daycare spots.