Moving to a new country with a baby, or expecting one soon after arriving, comes with a long list of practical questions. This guide gathers background information for international parents in and around Frankfurt, the Taunus hills and nearby towns such as Bad Homburg, Oberursel, Wiesbaden, Mainz and Darmstadt. It is an informational resource, not a service provider, and it does not take bookings or advertise businesses.
What the guide covers
Essentials. The need-to-know section explains the topics most newcomers meet first: health and medical care, pregnancy and work rights, and childcare, kindergarten and school. A glossary-style approach to German terms helps when forms and appointment letters arrive.
Finding things. The directory overview shows how local resources are grouped, from activities and cafes to playgrounds, services and travel. Separate pages go deeper on activities and classes, things to do, parks and playgrounds and shopping.
Community. Parents new to the area often find the quickest help through other parents. The forums page describes how online exchanges have worked, and playgroups are the easiest way to meet people face to face.
Why a local guide helps
German systems for healthcare, parental leave and childcare have their own vocabulary and timelines. Daycare places can be scarce, official paperwork has deadlines, and shops and public facilities differ from what many expatriates are used to. Having one place that explains the landscape in English saves time, even when the final answer has to come from an official body, a health insurer or an employer.
A word of caution
The material was compiled around 2016 and 2017. Opening hours, group schedules and legal details change, so treat everything as a starting point and confirm with the relevant authority or provider. Nothing here is medical, legal or financial advice.
Where to begin
If you are still preparing for a move, start with childcare and education because waiting lists can be long. If you are expecting a baby, read about having a baby. If you have just arrived, a walk to one of the city parks is a good first outing.