With the federal program "Kita-Einstieg: Brücken bauen in frühe Bildung", the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth funded services from 2017 to 31.12.2022 that prepare and support access to daycare and remove barriers. These were initially continued by the city of Salzgitter for a limited period in 2023. At its meeting on January 31, 2024, the Salzgitter City Council decided to continue the groups in the future.

As part of this project, there are currently a total of eight groups that are run in cooperation with various independent youth welfare organizations.

Play and learning groups for children

In Salzgitter, play and learning groups have been set up for children who do not yet have a place in a daycare center. These children can be looked after temporarily in these groups in order to establish social contacts and get a taste of everyday life in a daycare center.

The introductory groups are open to children aged 3-6 years from families with a migration background and/or refugee experience and from families in special life situations. Families who do not yet have a place in a daycare center can also benefit from this offer.

General aims of the groups

• Providing initial insights into the childcare system
• To inform parents about the opportunities for early education in Germany
• Promoting early childhood education through educational offers

Educational goals of the play and learning groups:

• Preparation for attending a daycare center or elementary school
• Familiarization with structured procedures and educational offers
• Everyday integrated language development
• Promotion of the children's motor, cognitive and social-emotional development

The play and learning groups take place 3 days a week for 3 hours each. Participation is free of charge. Smaller contributions towards expenses may be incurred, for example for food.