Ask about school and childcare early
Overview
Childcare and school are organised locally.
The question you never knew to ask“When do I have to join the Kita waiting list, and is my child already of kindergarten age?”
Why it matters
Childcare is organised locally and places can be in demand, so the earlier you ask, the more choice you keep. Public school is organised locally too: the school a child goes to generally follows your address, their age and their circumstances.
Does this apply to me?
Your circumstances: Canton Bern, B permit, mixed nationalities, family with children, moving with a partner, arriving soon
Because you arrive soon, and Noa is Kita age.
When?
Before you need the place.
What do I need?
- Your children's ages
- Where you expect to live
- When you need care to start
What do I do next?
- Ask your future commune how school registration works for your children's ages.
- Before you sign a lease, ask which public school that address would mean for your children.
- Contact childcare providers near where you will live and ask about waiting lists.
Official guidance
Read official guidance from the Swiss authorities' joint information site (federal, cantonal and communal):
ch.ch: childcare in SwitzerlandRead official guidance from the Swiss authorities' joint information site (federal, cantonal and communal):
ch.ch: when children start school
Useful resources
Our guide: Will my salary be enough?, Childcare and school