After Your Baby is Born

Activities for English Speaking Families in Berlin 30 March 2022

Peruse our list of activities for English speaking families with kids of all ages – from babies to teens.

Your Return to Work After Elternzeit – The Legal Perspective 27 November 2023

As a new or expecting parent, you may have lots of questions when planning your return to work after your parental leave (Elternzeit). Our employment law specialist answers some of the most frequently asked questions.

How to Get Support After Giving Birth (Paid By Your Health Insurance) 04 July 2023

Did you know that you could get at-home support (called "Haushaltshilfe") after your baby is born and that this can be paid for by your health insurance? Learn more.

What is the Difference Between a Babysitter & A Nanny? 25 November 2022

Do you know what the difference is between a nanny and a babysitter? I didn't! But Giulia from Extra Arms tells us all there is to know.

Winding Down Your Breastfeeding and Bottle Journey 10 November 2023

When and how to wean your baby is very individual and we’re here to give you some guidance around deciding when and how to wind down your breast- or bottle feeding journey. 

What to Expect from a Montessori Learning Center 28 March 2023

Expert Katelynn Johnson will tell us how a Montessori classroom is set up, how the children learn and how the teachers foster an environment of discovery.

The Joy of Simple Parenting: 5 Tips to Lighten the Load 31 March 2023

As a parent, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by social pressure. Here are five tips from our expert Evelyne on how to simplify your family life.

Guidelines for Visitors: Tips for New Parents 03 July 2023

How to keep visiting friends and family in line is probably one of the hardest and most talked about things among new parents (besides sleep!). Here are some tips and guidelines.

Postpartum Depression: How to Know if it's More than Baby Blues? 25 July 2023

Welcoming a child into the world is a wonderful but also life changing experience. How can new parents tell if it’s more than baby blues? Learn more.

Berlin Postnatal Yoga & Exercise Classes in English 06 September 2022

Learn about the different types of postnatal exercise classes and 'Rückbildungskurse." Plus a list of Berlin courses offered in English.

Activities for Spanish Speaking Families in Berlin 24 October 2023

Peruse our list of activities for Spanish speaking families in Berlin with kids of all ages – from babies to teens.

How to Recover from a C-Section, Mentally & Physically? 10 October 2023

Have you just had a c-section or are planning to have one? Learn about what the recovery period may look like and how to help the healing process.

What About Dads' Postpartum Mental Health? 09 October 2023

Did you know that new fathers can also be affected by postpartum depression? Learn about the importance and the different aspects of a new dad’s mental health.

What is Kindergeld and How Can I Get It? 19 December 2022

Families in Germany are entitled to Kindergeld. We spoke with Karla and Tarik from Move-In about the application process and how their tool can help international families.

Introducing Solids to Your Baby: How and When? 19 September 2023

Learn about how and when to introduce solids to your baby – what signs to look for, what foods to try and which ones to avoid.

40+ Berlin Playgrounds with Baby Swings You Have to Visit 11 July 2023

This list provides information on over 30 playgrounds in Berlin that are equipped with a baby swing, ensuring you can easily find suitable locations for your infant's playtime.

Does My Baby Need Water? 05 July 2023

Especially in the summer, when it's hot, you may be wondering if your baby needs to be fed water. The short answer is: no. Learn why.

Postpartum Support for New Families in Berlin 29 March 2023

Life as new parents can be exhausting and we're not meant to do it alone! Here's a list of support for new families in Berlin – for practical things as well as mental, emotional or physical support.

Introducing Black Dads Germany 04 July 2023

Introducing Black Dads Germany! Peter Kamya, co-founder of Black Dads Germany, discusses the organization's mission to connect, empower, and celebrate dads of color in Germany.

Kindercafés in Berlin 22 March 2023

Learn what Kindercafés are and where you can find one near you in our up-to-date list. Plus cafés that have a play room or area.

How to Find a Babysitter or Nanny in Berlin 29 March 2023

Looking for a nanny or babysitter in Berlin? Here's where to look and how much you should expect to pay.

10 Common Myths About Breastfeeding 22 June 2023

Learn to separate fact from fiction. Katerina Koukaki, a doula and La Leche League International volunteer leader, debunks ten common breastfeeding myths.

What is Montessori? 28 March 2023

Perhaps you have come across the term Montessori – but what does that actually mean and where does the concept come from? Our expert Katelynn Chittenden tells us all about it.

How Giulia from Extra Arms Nanny Agency Can Help Berlin Parents 12 February 2020

Giulia from Extra Arms explains her agency's offerings, which includes long-term nanny contracts, nanny shares and temporary babysitting arrangements.

How to Help Your Baby Sleep 17 March 2023

Sleep is probably the number one topic new parents talk about! Learn how to set yourself up for success from day one in this article with infant sleep expert Keatyn Jayne.

Hair Loss after Pregnancy – Now What? 20 February 2023

Did you know that hair often falls out after having a baby? Spoiler alert: yes, it’s normal, and it’s also normal if you find yourself worried about it.

Tips for big and small emergencies with babies and kids 09 February 2023

Life with kids is never boring! Learn practical tips to prepare for big and small emergencies, provided by Dr. Claude Grenzbach.

Kita Search

I Got Offered Multiple Kita Spots – Now What? 20 April 2022

Have you been offered more than one Kita spot? Read this article on how to decide between different Kitas.

How to Get a Kita Spot for a Winter Start 28 March 2022

Insights on why it is so hard to get a spot in the winter. Plus, some tips on how to succeed anyways.

Getting Ready for Kita in Berlin – Paperwork 02 May 2022

You're almost there but of course (this is Germany, after all!) there's a couple of bureaucratic hurdles to clear before your child can start Kita.

Kita Search Glossary 11 April 2022

Learn what all the different words and terms mean when it comes to Kita search in Berlin.

Alternative Childcare Options While Waiting for a Kita Spot 12 April 2022

Are you looking for childcare options while waiting for a Kita spot? We’ve got you covered.

What Questions Should I Ask When Visiting a Kita? 15 March 2022

Congrats, you were invited to visit a Kita! Here's what questions to ask and what to pay attention to.

How to Make Sure Your Child Adapts Well at a German Kita 06 July 2023

As an international family in Germany, you may be wondering how your child(ren) will fare in the local daycare system. Here are the answers to the most common questions.

What Nobody Tells You about the First Kita Year 03 May 2022

Are you prepared for what's coming at you in the first year or two of Kita? I wasn't so here's my advice for fellow parents!

Getting Ready for Kita – The Infamous Eingewöhnung 02 May 2022

What is the Kita Eingewöhnung and how can you prepare for it?

How to Follow Up With Your Favorite Kitas 19 April 2022

Finding a Kita in Berlin is a marathon, not a sprint. Learn how and when to do your follow-ups. Includes sample wording.

Private Kitas in Berlin – Are they An Option? 19 April 2022

Learn what "private" really means and which Kitas offer what you're looking for.

Getting Ready for Kita – What to Buy 02 May 2022

What are all the things that your child will need when starting Kita? Learn about the basics.

Kietzee Checklist for Your Kita Search in Berlin 08 March 2022

Here's a checklist to make the Kita search process easier.

How and Where to Learn about Open Kita Spots in Berlin 21 April 2022

Check this article for resources that feature open Kita spots.

What to Include in Your Kita Application 10 February 2022

Create a personal connection when you are applying. Includes a sample application letter.

What Type of Kita is Right for You? 28 January 2022

Spoiler alert: There's no magic formula but these tips will help you build your Kita list.

Why Leave a Kita Review 08 March 2022

Other Berlin parents need your help! Contribute by adding tips and reviews for your Kita.

Kita versus Tagesmutter – what’s better? 11 April 2022

Kita, Tagesmutter, or apply to both? Learn about this alternative to Kitas.

How and When to Apply for the Kita-Gutschein 31 March 2022

Learn when you should apply for the Kita-Gutschein and what to pay attention to in regards to the number of hours provided.

Should I Use the Kita Navigator? 14 March 2022

Learn the differences between the Kita Navigator and Kita Search on Kietzee.

juggleHUB: Co-Working with Childcare in Prenzlauer Berg 03 May 2022

Hear from Katja, one of the founders of juggleHUB, a co-working space in Prenzlauer Berg that also offers childcare.

How Berlin Kitas fill their Spots 08 March 2022

How Kitas operate and allocate their spots.

How to find a Kita spot in Berlin for a 3-year old - from abroad! 12 February 2020

Find a Kita spot for a 3-year-old – tips & tricks from Kietzee mom Alina.

Work'n'Kid: Co-Working with Childcare 13 July 2020

How to use Work'n'Kid in Friedrichshain, which offers co-working with flexible childcare.

How Much Does Daycare (Kita) Cost in Berlin? 31 March 2022

Find out how much it costs to send your child to daycare in Berlin – spoiler alert: not much!

Expertentipps: So klappt die Kita-Eingewöhnung 06 February 2020

So meistern Familien die Eingewöhnungsphase in der Kita.

What is an Elterninitiative? Pros and Cons 08 March 2020

Learn about the concept, advantages and requirements of an Elterninitiative Kita.

No Kita? How to get money back for your private childcare 22 February 2022

How you can get your private childcare costs reimbursed. (Update: Unfortunately, this program is not currently offered.)

How to Find a Kita in Berlin 22 March 2022

A step-by-step guide to make your Berlin Kita search easier.

What Are Berlin Kitas Like? 19 April 2022

Learn what Berlin Kitas focus on to help kids grow and prepare them for school.

Interview: JuliaCares Family Services 08 March 2022

Julia Zehavi of JuliaCares helps families with Kita search.

How Many Kitas Should I Apply to? 16 March 2022

The answer is – it depends! Learn about the three factors to keep in mind.

One Mom, Seven Kitas – Learn Her Tips 08 March 2022

Learn from Mel who managed to get several Kita offers.

The Ultimate Kietzee Kita-Gutschein Cheat Sheet 07 April 2022

A step-by-step English translation guide on how to apply for your Kita-Gutschein.

Before Your Baby is Born

How does the Vaterschafts-anerkennung (recognition of paternity) work? 04 October 2023

Are you expecting a baby but are not married? Find out about the German process for recognition of paternity (Vaterschafts-anerkennung) – the how, the when and the why.

Template for Elternzeit Application 27 November 2023

Use this template for apply for parental leave (Elternzeit or Elternteilzeit) with your employer. Approved by our employment law experts.

List of Birthing Centers in Berlin 27 February 2023

If you're considering giving birth in a birthing center (Geburtshäuser) in Berlin, see our up-to-date list of centers near you.

Giving Birth at Home or at a Birthing Center in Berlin 01 September 2022

Here's everything you need to know if you're considering to give birth at a birthing center (Geburtshaus) or doing a home birth (Hausgeburt) in Berlin.

Do It In Community: How To Not Feel Alone as a Parent 13 November 2023

Here's how to find your parent community and why it's so important to feel connected on the exciting journey of parenthood.

What to Expect at Your First Pregnancy Ultrasound in Germany 16 May 2023

Let's dive into the details of your first ultrasound exam, which usually takes place between the 9th and 12th week of your pregnancy. Find out what to expect and what you will learn.

Berlin Birth Preparation Classes in English 13 September 2022

Learn about what is covered in a birth preparation class, when to take it and where to find a "Geburtsvorbereitungskurs" in English in Berlin or online.

Elterngeld 101 – What It Is and How to Get It 28 November 2022

In this article we will talk about 💸 Elterngeld – literally parent money – including what it is, how it works and how to get it.

Elternzeit 101 – What It Is and How to Apply For It 28 November 2022

Learn everything you need to know about Elternzeit. What is it? How and when should you apply for it? What about monetary benefits?

What is the “Wochenbett”? Preparing for the Postpartum Period 01 March 2023

As you are getting ready for the time immediately after your baby is born, you may have come across the German word “Wochenbett.” Find out what this means and how to prepare for this postpartum period with the whole family.

Postpartum Secrets: Tips from Experienced Parents 03 April 2023

Expecting parents often ask experienced parents: "What is it that you wish you knew before your baby was born?" Here's what we found out.

Guest Post: Parental Benefits I am Grateful for as an Indian Mother in Germany 03 November 2023

In this guest post, Gitanjali More, mom of a little girl and the creator of The Confused Mother, reflects on her experience as an Indian mother in Germany.

How does the German healthcare system work for families? 16 February 2023

As an international couple expecting a baby or a family moving to Germany from abroad, it’s super important to understand the German healthcare system. Learn how it works.

How To Get Your Baby's Birth Certificate? 16 February 2023

Your baby's birth certificate is a super important document that you will need to apply for many of the benefits available to families in Germany. Learn how and where to get it and what documents to prepare.

How to Find a Pediatrician in Berlin? 01 February 2023

Once your baby arrives, you’ll need a pediatrician near you that you can trust and go to for both scheduled checkups as well as adhoc appointments. Here are tips on how and where to find one.

Health Insurance for Baby and Parents on Leave in Germany 29 March 2023

Learn what will happen to your health insurance when you’re having a baby as well as how and when to add your baby to your insurance.

Midwife, OBGYN, Doula – How Does Prenatal and Postnatal Care Work in Germany? 07 July 2023

The way that prenatal and postnatal care is offered can vary greatly from country to country. Learn how the prenatal and postnatal care system works in Germany.

An Overview of Pregnancy & Parental Benefits in Germany 10 January 2023

Did you know how many government programs (soon-to-be) parents can benefit from in Germany? Here's an overview so you don't get lost.

How to Cloth Diaper: Different Systems, Rental Services & More 16 September 2023

If you want to try cloth diapers, here's what you need to know about how cloth diapers work, what system to buy, how rentals services can help, etc.

Maternity Wear that Works for Pregnancy, Postpartum and the Playground 25 September 2023

As your pregnancy progresses, you will find that all of a sudden, your everyday clothes just don’t fit anymore. Here are some tips on how to choose maternity wear that lasts.

Prenatal Diagnostics in Germany: NIPT, First Trimester Screening & More 13 October 2023

If you are thinking about having additional prenatal tests, here is an overview of the available invasive and non-invasive prenatal tests in Germany.

Recommended Tests & Vaccinations in Pregnancy in Germany 19 October 2023

You will find that there are lots of tests that will be offered to you leading up to your baby’s birth. Here is everything you need to know about each of the tests that are covered by public health insurance.

Which Hospital to Choose for Birth in Berlin? 19 September 2022

Here's an overview of all Berlin hospitals, including dates for information sessions, pre-registration information and specialties.

Resources to Prepare for Breastfeeding – Before Your Baby is Born 30 October 2023

Are you considering to breastfeed your baby? Learn how you can prepare even before your child is born.

Your First Pregnancy Appointment in Germany 11 May 2023

What should you expect at your first pregnancy appointment? What tests will be done? What documents should you bring? Find out in our article.

Prenatal Diagnostics: How to Decide Whether to Test or Not 13 October 2023

If you are thinking about or have been recommended to get additional prenatal testing done, here is some general information and guidance on how to make your decision.

How to Prepare for a C-Section and What to Expect? 10 October 2023

About 3 out of 10 babies in Germany are born via c-section. But how can you prepare for a c-section as expecting parents, whether it is planned or unplanned? 

Berlin Prenatal Yoga Classes in English 05 September 2022

Read on for an up-to-date list of prenatal/ pregnancy yoga classes in Berlin offered in English. Features both in-person and online classes.

Tips for Multilingual Families: Q&A with Kietzee Expert 15 December 2022

Are you interested in raising your child with multiple languages? Learn about the different strategies and how to implement them in your day-to-day family life from Kietzee expert Huguette.

Changing Your OBGYN During Pregnancy in Germany: What You Need to Know 17 May 2023

If you're thinking about changing your OBGYN during pregnancy in Germany, there's a few things you need to know about the timing and different options to move forward. Learn more.

Cloth Diapers: Pros and Cons 13 September 2023

Are you thinking about using cloth diapers for your baby? Here’s what you need to know about the advantages and disadvantages of reusable diapers.

The Pregnancy Diabetes Test in Germany 02 March 2023

What is pregnancy diabetes? And how does the test work, which you will be offered around 24-28 weeks of pregnancy?

Medical Appointments During Pregnancy in Germany 02 March 2023

Learn about the schedule of appointments with your OBGYN and/or midwife during pregnancy. How often are they? What tests are run?

How To Alleviate Aches and Pains During Pregnancy 14 July 2023

Are you experiencing aches and pains during your pregnancy? Learn why they occur and what you can do to release the tension.

What is Mutterschaftsgeld and How Can I Get It? 13 December 2022

Mutterschaftsgeld is one of the benefits available to (expecting) parents in Germany. But what is it exactly and how do you apply for it?

When to Tell Your Employer About Your Pregnancy 28 July 2023

When you find out that you are pregnant, you may be wondering how and when to inform your employer.  Here’s everything you need to know.

What is the Mutterschutz (Maternity Protection) in Germany? 28 July 2023

What protection is offered for pregnant people in Germany? What does Mutterschutz mean? What is the Schutzfrist? Here’s everything you need to know.

3 Things To Do Once You Find Out You’re Pregnant 03 November 2022

Here's what you want to tackle right away when you know you're having a baby – or better still: when you're planning a pregnancy in Berlin.

How to Choose Where to Give Birth in Berlin? 01 September 2022

Learn about the three options for giving birth in Berlin – hospital, home birth or birthing center. Includes pros and cons for each option.

What Does a Midwife Do – And How Can I Find One? 31 August 2022

Find out about the different types of work midwives do and how you can find a midwife for your pre-natal, birth and post-natal journey in Berlin.

The Postpartum Period - Products, Tips & Tricks 28 April 2023

What do you need for the postpartum period? Our expert Karo Gaßmann recommends and explains her ten favorite products.

Baby Must Haves: What You Really Need to Buy for Your Newborn 26 June 2023

Don't waste money on baby stuff you don't need. We worked with doula Keatyn Jayne to craft the ultimate list of everything you really need to buy for your newborn.

What You DON’T Need to Buy for Your Newborn 26 June 2023

No need to spend any more money than you already have to. We worked with doula Keatyn Jayne to craft the ultimate list of everything you DON'T need to buy for your newborn.

A Pediatrician's Top Tip for Expecting Parents 14 February 2023

Berlin pediatrician Dr. Claude Grenzbach shares her number one tip for expecting parents. Spoiler alert: it's not what you would expect!

Elterngeld Plus & Partnerschaftsbonus – What You Need To Know 28 November 2022

In addition to Basis Elterngeld, there are two other types of parental allowance in Germany. Here's what you need to know and when this might make sense for you.

How to Choose The Right Stroller for Your Berlin Baby Adventure 10 November 2022

Are you overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information, brands and models? Here's a guide on how to choose the right stroller for Berlin city dwellers.

On the Day: What To Do When Labor Starts 25 October 2022

The day is finally here and labor has started – now what? An experienced doula walks us through the next steps.

How to Choose a Hospital to Give Birth at? 25 October 2022

What criteria should you keep in mind when choosing your Berlin hospital to give birth at? Also, how can you learn more and why should you pre-register at your chosen hospital?

Advocating for Yourself at Birth 03 April 2023

Work towards a positive birth experience by learning how to advocate for yourself as well as for the birthing partner during labor. Expert tips by doula Marta Palombo.

Baby Carriers 101 11 January 2023

There is so much information out there about baby carrying as well as brands and models, so we are very happy that Dörte Hacker shares her know-how about baby wearing and slings with us in this article. 

What to Expect at the Feindiagnostik Ultrasound in Germany 16 May 2023

In certain cases, your OBGYN will recommend a special, detailed ultrasound, called the "Feindiagnostik." Find out when and why this may be recommended and what you can learn from the test.

What to Expect at Your Third Pregnancy Ultrasound in Germany 16 May 2023

Find our what your OBGYN will check at the third (and last) scheduled ultrasound during your pregnancy.

How to Apply for Elterngeld – Your Checklist 28 November 2022

Ready to apply for Elterngeld? Here is your list of documents to submit with your application.

What to Expect at Your Second Pregnancy Ultrasound in Germany 16 May 2023

In week 17-20, it's time for the second ultrasound exam during your pregnancy. This is when things get really exciting because you'll be able to see your baby in more detail! Find out what else to expect.

How to Stay Lovers When You Become Parents 02 May 2023

Becoming a parent is a major life event. But what happens to couples and lovers when they become parents? Find out from Kietzee expert Sammy Strasser.

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag For Delivery 03 March 2023

Learn what you should pack in your bag to bring to the hospital for giving birth in Berlin. Covers items for the delivery room, the maternity ward, important documents and clothes for the baby.

Introducing La Leche League 14 March 2023

Learn about La Leche League, an organization that provides information and support to those who want to breastfeed their babies.

What is a Mutterpass? 01 March 2023

At your first appointment with your OBGYN or midwife, you will receive a little booklet called a “Mutterpass” in German. But what is this booklet and what do you do with it?

Introducing call a midwife 25 November 2022

Are you struggling to find a midwife that can support you during pregnancy and the postpartum period? We chat with Sabine, the founder of call a midwife, about how they can help.

What Does a Doula Do And How Do They Support Families? 30 November 2022

Are you curious about how doulas support families during pregnancy and the postpartum period? And how does this differ from the work of midwives? Read on to find out.