German Parenting & Childcare | Vocabulary List

German Parenting & Childcare

Last Updated: 02.08.2025
This article is part of our German vocabulary series. Also make sure to check out our A1 / A2 online German lessons and our German reading material.

Parenting and childcare come with specific vocabulary and common routines. Whether you're talking to family, daycare staff, or paediatricians, knowing these terms helps you participate in conversations confidently.

Core Vocabulary: Childcare & Parenting

These words form the backbone of German vocabulary around children and care.

das Baby
baby
das Kleinkind
toddler / small child
der Kindergarten
preschool / daycare center
die Krippe
nursery / crèche
der Kinderwagen
stroller
das Wickeln
diaper changing

Everyday Phrases for Parents and Caregivers

These sentences help you describe routines, ask questions, and communicate clearly with caregivers or doctors.

Das Baby schläft gerade.

The baby is sleeping right now.
Wann ist die nächste Milchmahlzeit?

When is the next milk feed?
Das Kleinkind läuft jetzt schon.

The toddler can already walk.
Wann ist der Eingewöhnungstermin im Kindergarten?

When is the adjustment period at daycare?

Health, Development & Pediatric Care

Here are common terms and phrases used when talking to healthcare providers about growth and development.

das Wachstum
growth
die Impfung
vaccination
die Vorsorgeuntersuchung
check‑up / preventive examination
die Entwicklungsstörung
developmental disorder
der Kinderarzt
paediatrician

Example Sentences

Wann ist die nächste Vorsorgeuntersuchung?

When is the next check‑up?
Ist die Impfung für das Kleinkind abgeschlossen?

Is the toddler’s vaccination schedule complete?
Der Kinderarzt hat Entwicklungsverzögerung festgestellt.

The paediatrician detected delayed development.

Talking About Daily Routines and Play

These phrases describe everyday parenting activities and playtime moments.

spielen
to play
das Spielzeug
toy
die Mahlzeit
meal
das Mittagsschläfchen
nap
die Gute‑Nacht‑Geschichte
bedtime story
das Anziehen
dressing (getting dressed)

Example Sentences

Wir spielen heute im Garten.

We’re playing in the garden today.
Die Mahlzeit war gesund und frisch.

The meal was healthy and fresh.
Das Kind braucht sein Mittagsschläfchen.

The child needs their midday nap.
Kannst du die Gute‑Nacht‑Geschichte vorlesen?

Can you read the bedtime story?

Support & Education Settings

Vocabulary around daycare and school readiness creates smoother communication with educators and caregivers.

die Vorschule
pre‑school / reception class
der Hort
after‑school care
der Elternabend
parents’ evening
die Lernfähigkeit
learning ability
die Sprachentwicklung
language development

Example Sentences

Wann ist der Elternabend im Kindergarten?

When is the parents’ evening at preschool?
Er besucht den Hort nach der Schule.

He attends after‑school care after school.
Wie ist die Sprachentwicklung des Kindes?

How is the child’s language development?

Final Thoughts

Parenting and childcare in German-speaking environments involve many specific terms and routine conversations. Take time to use these in real situations, and your ability to talk about your child and their daily life will grow naturally.

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