Free time is an important time of the day at Billabong. It’s a block of time when children choose their level of engagement and can play however they like. Whether it is discovering a new game or toy, role playing with others, or mingling throughout the different rooms, the intention behind free play is to be self-guided and foster imagination and creativity. Free play is an integral part of our kita life, and we dedicate at least one day of the week, along with our afternoons, to it.

During free play children, can

• process thoughts, experiences and feelings
• gain social skills
• strategize and problem solve
• overcome challenges
• be immersed in play without being disturbed

During free play, teachers 

• watch closely
• learn the interest of the children
• observe group dynamics
• uncover childrens’ strengths and talents
• offer assistance and accompany children where it is needed

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.