In German daycare centres (Kitas), celebrating birthdays is generally encouraged as an opportunity to strengthen children’s sense of belonging and joy. At the same time, celebrations are organised according to clear rules – especially concerning food – in order to protect the health and safety of all children. Here are the main points:

1. Home-made food: allowed, but with conditions

In most Kitas, it is permitted to bring a home-made cake or a simple home-prepared snack, but:

• no heavy cream toppings or excessive chocolate

• no cakes containing alcohol (such as rum cake)

• ideally, the cake should be nut-free and avoid common allergens

• some Kitas require that the ingredients be listed in writing and attached on a separate sheet

2. Sweets: often not allowed

• Distributing sweets or candies (bonbons) is not permitted in many institutions.

• Sometimes, it is allowed to bring decoratively arranged fruit pieces or healthy snacks instead (e.g. small corn cones, natural juices).

3. Preferred healthy alternatives

Popular and often recommended options include:

• fruit cut into fun shapes and served creatively (e.g. on wooden skewers)

• carrot cake or low-sugar yoghurt cake

• home-made date balls or oat balls

• small pieces of bread or rolls with cheese or peanut butter (if this is not explicitly forbidden)

4. Food allergies (Lebensmittelallergien)

Food allergies are one of the main reasons why Kitas introduce strict rules.

• The management should be informed a few days before the planned celebration.

• Any specific instructions for individual children must be carefully followed (e.g. gluten, lactose or nut allergies).

5. Usual procedures for birthday celebrations

• Celebrations usually take place in the morning or during breakfast time.

• The birthday child often has a special decorated chair and may receive a “crown” or a small symbolic gift from the teacher.

• Depending on the Kita’s policy, one parent may sometimes be invited to join the celebration.

Is formal permission or a form required?

In some federal states or under certain providers (Träger), parents may be required to fill in a consent form, especially when special food is brought to the Kita.

The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some information may be incomplete or not yet fully verified. For this reason, please regard the information in this article as an initial point of reference and always consult the relevant authorities or professional bodies for binding, up-to-date guidance.