Here you will find answers to the questions parents ask us most often – from signing up and the Kita-Gutschein voucher to what a day with us looks like. Still have a question? We'd love to hear from you.
At what age can children start with you?
We care for children from birth through the preschool years. For the very youngest especially, one steady, familiar caregiver makes all the difference – and that is exactly what home-based child care (Kindertagespflege), with its small group, is built for.
What is the difference between a Kita and Kindertagespflege?
Kindertagespflege – in German often called a “Tagesmutter” – means a much smaller group than a Kita (a day care center). That keeps things family-like: every child has the same familiar caregivers, and the day can flex more easily around what the children and their families need. Legally, Kindertagespflege has the same standing as a Kita – it is funded through the Hamburg Kita-Gutschein just the same.
How do I apply for the Kita-Gutschein in Hamburg?
You apply for the Kita-Gutschein (Hamburg's child care voucher) at the child care department (Abteilung Kindertagesbetreuung) of your local district office, the Bezirksamt – for Winterhude that is Bezirksamt Hamburg-Nord. The voucher expressly covers Kindertagespflege, not only Kitas. All forms and requirements are listed by the City of Hamburg. We are also happy to walk you through the steps in person.
What does a spot cost?
The cost of care is covered by the Hamburg Kita-Gutschein. Families pay an income-based share of the cost, which the Bezirksamt sets in the voucher – how much depends on your income and on the hours of care approved. Get in touch and we will go through your situation together.
What does settling in look like?
We settle children in using the Berlin model (Berliner Eingewöhnungsmodell). It starts with an unhurried intake conversation. During the two to four weeks of settling in, a parent or another trusted caregiver stays with the child; we usually try a first short, gentle goodbye around the third or fourth day. From there we stretch the time apart step by step – always at your child's pace and in close coordination with you.
What meals do the children get?
We cook fresh organic food every day: breakfast at 9:00 a.m., lunch at 11:30 a.m., and a fruit break at 3:00 p.m. Vegetarian diets, religious and cultural dietary needs, and allergies are of course taken into account. Water is available to the children at all times.
Do the children nap with you?
Yes. Every child has their own set sleeping spot, which we make cozy with personal things like a favorite pillow or stuffed animal. Once they have settled in, the children usually nap together after lunch, and a caregiver is always right there with them.
What languages are spoken at minionKIDS?
Our team is multilingual: besides German we speak Armenian, Russian, and Turkish, and we bring along the basics of sign language. For children growing up with more than one language, that is a valuable bridge in everyday life.
Which neighborhoods do your families come from?
We are at Semperplatz 5 in Hamburg-Winterhude – a short walk from the Barmbek border and easy to reach from Uhlenhorst, Alsterdorf, and Eppendorf. Many of our families live right around the corner.
Can we see the rooms beforehand?
Absolutely – we would love to have you visit. At a get-to-know-you appointment we show you our 2,150 sq ft (200 m²) in the former pharmacy and answer your questions without rushing. For a first impression, have a look at the Our Space page; to set up a visit, just send us a message.