Free time is a vital part of the day at Billabong, providing children with the freedom to choose their level of engagement and play in a way that feels natural to them. Whether they are exploring a new game or toy, engaging in role play, or socializing across different rooms, the purpose of free play is to encourage self-guided learning, creativity, and imagination. As an integral part of our kita life, we dedicate at least one full day each week, along with our afternoons, to this unstructured play.

During free play, children have the opportunity to process their thoughts, experiences, and emotions, develop social skills, strategize, problem-solve, and overcome challenges, all while being fully immersed in play without interruption. Meanwhile, teachers take on an observant role, closely watching the children to understand their interests, group dynamics, strengths, and talents. They provide guidance and support when needed, ensuring that each child feels accompanied while still allowing for independence. Through free play, children not only experience joy and fun but also gain essential life skills in a nurturing and stimulating environment.

Throughout the year, based on our observations and childrens’ interests, the community plans a variety of projects to undertake with the children. Our intention is always to try and address the various areas of education from the Berlin educational program and use different media, resources and senses to do so. Past projects include examining mindfulness, professions, and even basic geology. Parents are welcome to get involved in these projects!

During the children’s conference, the older children meet with two teachers separately from the rest of the group. There, the children have the opportunity to share in a safe atmosphere their wishes, ideas and worries. They are also encouraged to exchange ideas and dialogue. Examples of ideas that have emerged from the conference include new choices for playground visits, or having picnics during afternoon snack time. 

The older children then return to the younger children, where they discuss the ideas with the rest of the group.

In our daycare center, we do not hold or adhere to a typical idea of preschool. Instead, children are prepared for school in the best way possible through learning workshops and daily activities. In learning workshops, the oldest children have time to work on various tasks in a focused and undisturbed manner. At the same time, younger children are also participating in age- and developmentally appropriate activities.

Our Forest Days take place once a week. On these days, we use public transportation to travel to various forests and parks throughout the city, including the botanical Volkspark Pankow/Blankenfelde, the Tegeler Forest or the Schlosspark Pankow, just to name a few. Together, we are able to observe animals, go tracking, build shelters, and discover the beauty of nature. It’s a much-loved experience for the children, and it’s a great way to have a break from bustling city life.

We also have a special outing once a month. For these outings, we go to museums, theater productions, water playgrounds, or other interesting sites around Berlin.

Singing is encouraged throughout the day, and it is an integral part of our daily rituals. Once a week, our music teacher from a local music school also visits us. During our music sessions, the children are encouraged to sing, dance and play instruments together.