Choosing a Kita or School in Germany as a Black Parent: What to Watch For and How to Advocate
Moving to a new country as a parent comes with countless decisions – but few feel as emotionally loaded as choosing the right Kita or school for your child.
For Black parents, or parents of children of color, there’s an added layer: How do I find a space where my child will be safe, seen, and supported – not just academically, but also in their identity?
This guide offers suggestions and real-life considerations from a racialized perspective. It’s written from experience – as a Black mother in Germany, and as someone who supports other families of color through the relocation process.
“Every child deserves a safe place to grow. And every parent deserves to feel they’re doing the right thing. You’re already on that path.”
1. There’s No Perfect Kita – But There Are Red Flags
Not every Kita will have racial awareness or diversity practices in place. But there are signs that can help you assess the environment:
✅ Things to look for:
Diverse team (by ethnicity, languages, gender)
Inclusive visual materials (books, posters, toys)
Curious, open communication during your visit
Staff who speak more than one language or have international experience
⚠️ Possible red flags:
Entirely white staff, especially in diverse neighborhoods
Questions or comments that make you feel uncomfortable (“Where are you from?”)
Resistance to parents asking questions about culture or inclusion
Dismissive answers when you raise concerns
You don’t need a Kita that’s “perfect” – but you do deserve a place that is willing to listen, learn, and include your family’s perspective.
2. Ask the Questions Others Won’t
Many white parents simply don’t have to think about how racism might affect their child at school. But you do – and that’s not paranoia, it’s proactive care.
When visiting a Kita or school, consider asking:
“How do you talk about difference or racism with children?”
“Have you ever had children of color in your group or class?”
“What happens if a child makes a racist comment?”
“What holidays or cultures are celebrated here?”
These questions are not too much. They are exactly what your child needs you to ask.
3. Talk to Other Parents of Color (if possible)
Word of mouth is powerful. If you can, connect with other Black or racialized families in your city or neighborhood. Ask:
What has your experience been with this school?
How did your child feel there?
Were there moments you felt unsafe or unseen?
Facebook groups, WhatsApp communities, or BIPoC parent meetups can be great spaces to find real talk and recommendations.
4. Trust Your Gut – Always
If something feels off, believe yourself. You might not have the language for it yet. You might be unsure whether it’s “really racism.” But if your body tenses, your heart sinks, or you leave feeling small – that’s data. And it counts.
5. Know That You’re Not Alone
If you’re reading this, you’re already doing more than many institutions expect. You’re preparing, asking questions, looking for support.
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
I offer 1:1 support for BIPoC families relocating to Germany – including school & Kita guidance with a rassismuskritische perspective. We’ll talk through your options, prepare questions, and reflect honestly on your experience.
