Which nursery for your children in Luxembourg?

Have you just arrived in Luxembourg with your family and are looking for the ideal crèche for your child? This crucial decision can quickly become a headache for newcomers. With nearly 450 state-approved establishments and constant demand, understanding the Luxembourg childcare system is essential to making the right choice.

How does childcare work in Luxembourg?

Luxembourg is a country renowned for the quality of life of familiesThis is largely due to good childcare. The country has a comprehensive and well-organised childcare offer:

1. For 0-4 year olds (children not attending school) : Crèches, mini-crèches, day nurseries and parental assistants look after your child before he or she starts primary school.
2. For 4-12 year olds (school children) : Day centres and maisons-relais take over for after-school care and during the holidays.

This system also offers a degree of flexibility: mini-crèches can exceptionally take children up to the age of 12, giving families greater flexibility.

The Luxembourg system has a number of advantages for expatriate families:

• Children are educated in three languages: Since 2017, all approved facilities must offer education in Lëtzebuergesch, French and German. In addition, some may offer English, Italian, Portuguese, etc.
• Quality standards are high: All approved facilities comply with the same criteria in terms of space, safety and teaching methods - checks are carried out regularly.
• You may be eligible for financial assistance from the government: Le Welcome Service Cheque (CSA) is available to all residents and cross-border commuters

Which nursery should you choose for your children when you're an expatriate?

Fortunately, in Luxembourg there are many options:

Municipal crèches

They are an excellent option for expatriates wishing to integrate quickly into the local community. They are managed by the local authorities and offer an authentic Luxembourg environment.

Here's why it's interesting:

• Rates are competitive: costs are calculated on the basis of family income, with a contribution from the State
• The children fit in perfectly: with a predominantly Luxembourgish environment that makes it easier to learn the national language, as well as the official languages (French, German)
• There is a very good social mix: with children of different nationalities, promoting intercultural integration
• These structures are stable and qualitative: they are made to last over time, by qualified and experienced professionals

There are a number of municipal crèches, including in the city of Luxembourg. A word of advice: get in touch with your local authority early enough. Please note that places are limited and priority is given to local residents.

Private crèches

Many expatriates choose to send their children to private schools (at least for the 1st year) for several reasons:

• Because it's easier to get a place there than in a municipal facility
• Private crèches are often well located geographically. (close to workplaces or stations)
• Because they sometimes offer alternative methods of education and learning (Montessori for example)
• Because they foster an international environment (staff are generally multilingual with experience of children from abroad)
• Because they often offer extended working hours (sometimes from 5am to 11pm, with optional services such as organic meals, specialised activities and personalised follow-up)

In certain formulas, these crèches can be in mini or micro format, accommodating a maximum of 11 or 12 children per establishment.

Some of the best known areChild King, Royal Kids, Babyhome, Babilou, Les Mignons... You can find the full list of facilities closest to your workplace by searching Google Maps.

Important to know: Private crèches under agreement apply the same rates as municipal crèches and give access to the CSA. Some non-approved structures charge free rates (€850-1300/month, or sometimes even more).

Find out about prices well in advance so that you can make the best decision.

Conclusion

In a nutshell:

• If you are looking for a modern or alternative educational method, international languages (English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese), optional services (extended childcare, organic meals) and you're prepared to pay a little more, opt for a private childcare centre.
• If you are looking for a more economical option and want to integrate well into Luxembourg societyIf you're looking for a place to stay, go to one of the local establishments (but be aware that places will be limited).

To find the best crèche for your child:

1. Contact your local authority to find out if places are available in the municipal structure.
2. Use Google Maps to find the nearest private crèches to your home or workplace. (and call them for prices)