Preschools abroad: how expat parents can enroll a child in kindergarten

Emigrating is a big step, and one of parents' foremost concerns is finding the right preschool for their child. How is early-childhood education organized abroad? How do you choose the right place, and what do you do if your child doesn't speak the language? This article looks at how preschools work in different countries and offers practical advice on helping children settle in.

How do preschools work abroad?

In many countries early-childhood education is run by the state, but private preschools also play an important role. The main differences come down to the age children start, the length of the day, and the curriculum.

Preschool systems country by country

Germany

Germany has both public and private preschools. Between the ages of three and six, children attend a Kindergarten. Public facilities are subsidized, while private ones typically offer a wider range of extras.

France

Here children can attend the école maternelle from age three. It is a free public institution and a cornerstone of the French education system. Private preschools tend to be more intensive, with an emphasis on early development, languages, or the arts.

United States

American preschools come in both public and private forms. Unlike in Europe, private options can be expensive, though subsidy programs are available.

Argentina

In Argentina children start preschool as early as age two. The system includes both public and private institutions. Notably, children often stay until the evening, since many parents work similar hours.

How to choose a preschool

Learn how the country's education system works

Every country has its own requirements and standards for preschools. Get to know your options: public, private, or international institutions. Bear in mind that private preschools may offer a broader curriculum along with extras such as foreign-language classes.

Ask local expats for advice

Other expatriates can offer valuable insight into how preschools work and which ones are best suited to children who don't yet speak the language. Online communities and social-media groups can be an excellent source of information.

Factor in distance and hours

Some countries offer preschools with extended hours, which matters if you work full time.

What if your child doesn't speak the language?

For many expats the language barrier is a real challenge. Preschools, however, can take very different approaches to helping children adapt.

• Bilingual learning. Some international preschools structure their programs so children learn in two languages at once. This is especially valuable for expat children, who can pick up the language through play and everyday interaction.
• Language learning through play. Most preschools teach through games rather than formal language lessons. Children are immersed in an environment where they talk constantly with teachers and other kids, which helps them master a new language faster.
• Dedicated programs for foreign children. In some countries, such as Germany and Sweden, public preschools run special groups for expat children that place extra emphasis on language and cultural adaptation.

What preschools cost abroad

• Europe. In countries like Germany and France, public preschools are partly or fully subsidized. Private ones can run from 300 to 1,000 euros a month.
• United States. Private preschools in the US are among the most expensive anywhere - from 1,000 to 3,000 dollars a month depending on the region and the school's level.
• South America. In Argentina public preschools are free, while private ones can cost between 200 and 800 dollars a month.

Key tips for expat parents

Start looking early

In some countries there are waiting lists for preschool places, especially at public institutions. You may need to apply several months - sometimes a full year - before you plan to start.

Documents and vaccinations

Check the vaccination requirements in the country where you plan to enroll your child. Some countries require specific vaccinations before a child can attend an educational institution.

Ease in through social contact

Create opportunities for your child to get to know the new culture gradually. Playing with other children and attending language courses or clubs can speed up the adjustment.

Flexible teachers

Pay attention to how ready the teachers are to support expat children, particularly with language. Good teachers find an individual approach to each child, which helps them settle in faster.

Choosing a preschool abroad is an important step that takes preparation and time. Research the country's early-education system, pick the setting that best fits your needs, and set your child up for a smooth transition. Remember that children adapt quickly to new surroundings - especially when they feel supported by their parents and teachers.

The right to a place and free years: what to know in 2026

• Germany. Since 2013 every child from age 1 has a legal right to a place in a kindergarten or with a childminder. Places are still short, so apply right after registering your address.
• France. Since 2019 education is compulsory from age 3, so children of that age attend free public nursery school; crèches before 3 are paid, with fees depending on family income.
• Portugal. A state programme of free nurseries is gradually covering children born from September 2021 in public and participating private nurseries.

Documents for enrolment

Almost everywhere you are asked for the child's birth certificate with translation, proof of address in the kindergarten's area, a vaccination record and the parents' residence permits. A birth certificate issued in another country often needs an apostille. Murblz specialists prepare translations and apostilles in advance so enrolment does not wait for documents, and moving with children is covered in detail in our article moving abroad with children.

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