Frequently Asked Questions
Does a child need to have any knowledge or experience with the German language or culture to attend Kinderstube?
Children with no German language experience are welcome at Kinderstube. Children in Kinderstube are a mixture of both native English and German (and other languages too!) speakers. They naturally help each other learn and acquire their new language.
At what age can my child begin Kinderstube?
36 months to 5 years old.
Do children have to be toilet-trained?
Children should be fully toilet–trained or in the advanced stage of training before beginning Kinderstube. Exceptions made for children with diagnosed disabilities.
How many children attend Kinderstube?
Kinderstube is licensed for a maximum of 20 children on-site. The average child/staff ratio is 1:7
How much German language is used during their daily activities?
We strive for 100% German immersion. English is used only as necessary to “clarify confusion or provide comfort.”
With immersion in German, will my child’s English suffer?
No. Research shows that exposing children at a young age to a second language actually improves their verbal ability in their native language as well.
Will my child be well-prepared for kindergarten?
Yes. Our curriculum incorporates a special learning time for children entering kindergarten the following year. During this daily “Deutschstunde,” children learn and practice progressively more challenging cognitive activities.
How much is the tuition and what are the payment options?
The tuition price depends on your child’s enrollment schedule. On average the prices range from $27/day for the half-day program and $42/day for the full day program. Enrollment options range from 3 half days to 5 full days a week, plus afternoon extended care.
Prepayment of tuition is required. Payment is due monthly and can be made via check or automatic draft to a debit or credit card.
Is parent involvement required?
Yes. Kinderstube is a non-profit pre-school, committed to offering a high quality, yet affordable bilingual program. We believe that by enrolling your child at Kinderstube, you become part of the community that shares the goal and responsibility of providing an enriching, nurturing experience for all children in the program.
All parents are asked to volunteer at least 10 hours per year. Examples of volunteers tasks include:
- assisting in the classroom with activities such as snack preparation or clean-up
- leading a special activity
- classroom maintenance
- organizing yearly fundraiser
- washing of classroom toys/supplies
If a family’s schedule does not allow for completion of the volunteers hours, they may instead make a contribution of $20 for each hour in fulfillment of the requirement.
Does attendance at Kinderstube allow my child preferred enrollment at the Twin Cities German Immersion School?
No. The Twin Cities German Immersion School is a public charter school and part of the St. Paul public school system. While children who attend Kinderstube are well-prepared for success at TCGIS, they are not given enrollment preference. Kinderstube families must follow the same TCGIS enrollment procedures as the general public.
How do I schedule a visit to Kinderstube?
All families are highly encouraged to visit Kinderstube before enrolling. To schedule a visit, e-mail Kinderstube Director Ruxy McPherson or call 651-353-5147.
Does Kinderstube provide lunch and snacks?
As Kinderstube does not have access to a commercially licensed kitchen, we are prohibited from preparing snacks for the children.
Families are asked to supply healthy snacks in bulk on a rotating basis.
Children bring their own lunch from home. Please note that Kinderstube is a PEANUT-FREE ENVIRONMENT