Finding quality child care is one of the most important—and emotionally charged—decisions that expat families face when moving to Denmark. Whether you’re relocating for work, joining a Danish partner, or embarking on a new life adventure, the process of selecting child care can be overwhelming. For the 780,000+ foreigners living in Denmark—many of them with young families—accessing the right kind of care for their children is not as straightforward as it might seem. This is why you need to learn about the best child care in Denmark for foreigners.
Here are the key points on the best child care in Denmark for foreigners:
- Denmark offers high-quality, affordable child care, but the system can be complex for foreigners.
- Language barriers, long waitlists, and cultural differences are common challenges for expat families.
- It’s critical to understand the differences between public and private child care, application procedures, and pedagogical styles.
- Several institutions cater specifically to international families with bilingual staff, inclusive environments, and flexible policies.
- Recommended providers include International Daycare Copenhagen, Little House, Global Kidz, and International Playgroup Aarhus.
Find the Best Child Care in Denmark for Foreigners
You don’t have to read to the end to know what the right child care for your kid is. We have gathered a collection of essential links to online services that can help you find the best child care in Denmark for foreigners.
Why Choosing Child Care in Denmark Is Often Harder for Foreigners
Language Barriers and Communication Challenges
Denmark is known for its high English proficiency, but don’t let that fool you—many child care institutions operate primarily in Danish. While Danish-speaking children benefit from a native-language environment, this can be a major hurdle for international families. From understanding the philosophies behind different kinds of care (like vuggestue vs. dagpleje) to communicating with your child’s care provider during drop-off and pick-up, things get lost in translation—literally.
Furthermore, vital information like application timelines, daily routines, food menus, illness policies, and parent-cooperation associations is often only available in Danish. This gap not only creates stress for parents but can also lead to misunderstandings that affect your child’s care.
Waiting Lists and Complicated Application Systems
Municipal governments (kommuner) manage child care services in Denmark, and that’s both a blessing and a curse. On the upside, child care is subsidized and often extremely affordable compared to private care in other countries. On the downside, the application process varies wildly from one kommune to the next. The online portals used for enrollment (such as “Pladsanvisningen”) are only sometimes available in English, and most require NemID/MitID for access—tools many newcomers don’t immediately have.
More importantly, queues can be long. In major cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense, it’s not uncommon for parents to wait 6–12 months for a spot in the day care institution of their choice. And worst of all? Most municipalities operate on a “first come, first served” basis, not necessarily considering the specific needs of expat families—like proximity to work, English communication, or cultural inclusion.
Cultural Differences in Parenting Styles and Pedagogy
Denmark’s child care system places a huge emphasis on independence, free play, and outdoor activity—even in freezing weather. While many expat parents appreciate the emphasis on child-led learning and resilience, others may find the system to be less structured than what they’re used to. For example, children nap outside in prams—even in winter—on strict sleep schedules, and teaching syllabi are based more on social development than academics before age 6.
Parents from cultures with more structured education or closer parental involvement may worry about how their child will adjust. There’s also a distinct lack of diversity in some areas—which can make non-Danish children feel alienated if care centers don’t actively foster inclusion. These are critical aspects for any expat parent to consider, particularly if their child speaks a different language at home or has just transitioned from another country’s system.
Child Care Costs: Affordable, Yet Still Confusing
One of Denmark’s biggest pluses is the affordability of child care. Thanks to generous government subsidies, most families pay between 1,500–3,500 DKK/month (~€200–€470) for full-time care per child—much lower than other EU countries. Single parents and low-income families can pay considerably less. However, understanding the fee structures, eligibility for subsidies, and payment systems is often confusing for foreign residents unfamiliar with the Danish welfare model.
Add private nursery options and international kindergartens to the mix and the picture becomes even more complicated—costs can skyrocket and vary depending on services, hours, language of instruction, and even the food provided.
In essence, while Denmark has a strong, supportive system for early childhood care, getting access to the right form of care as a foreigner isn’t always smooth sailing. That’s why it’s essential to know your options and look into services that cater specifically to international families. Fortunately, some excellent providers understand the expat experience—and offer solutions that combine Danish high standards with international-minded flexibility.
Best Child Care in Denmark for Foreigners
Choosing child care in Denmark as a foreigner involves more than just finding a nearby institution with available spots—it requires understanding the nuances of the Danish child care system, aligning care styles with your family’s culture, and navigating administrative processes, often in a foreign language.
Key Considerations for Foreigners Seeking the Best Child Care in Denmark for Foreigners
Public vs. Private Options
The first major choice you’ll encounter is between public and private institutions. Public care (offentlig daginstitution) is heavily subsidized and widespread, but may not offer bilingual communication or consideration for diverse cultural backgrounds. Private day cares (privat daginstitution), though often more expensive, tend to have more flexibility in language use, teaching styles, and admission processes.
Private options can also include international schools and kindergartens, which start as early as age one. These are often a lifeline for expats trying to balance work and parenting in a new culture.
Applying Through the Municipality
If you’re going the public route, expect to register through your local municipality. Each kommune uses a different enrollment system—for example, Copenhagen uses a system called “Pladsanvisning,” which ranks your application by submission date. Be mindful: registration should typically be done as early as during pregnancy to secure a desired spot. You’ll need a CPR number and MitID—two essentials that all newcomers should sort out within their first month in Denmark.
Language of Instruction and Communication
Always ask whether staff members speak English or other languages, especially if your child is still adjusting to a multilingual environment. Some institutions have bilingual staff or programs, but this is more common in urban centers than rural towns.
Communicating with staff about your child’s progress, behavior, and routines is crucial—so ensure you’ll be able to have meaningful conversations, especially when urgent situations arise.
Pedagogical Philosophy
Danish day care institutions are heavily inspired by play-based learning. The core idea is to let children explore, build friendships, solve social conflicts, and learn through hands-on activities. There’s generally less emphasis on structured academic learning before age 6. If you come from a system with a more formal academic emphasis (e.g., British or East Asian systems), be prepared for this cultural shift.
Be sure to ask about daily routines—how much time is spent outdoors, nap policies, eating habits, and parent involvement events.
Costs and Contracts
While public options are subsidized with clear deadlines and fees, private care varies widely. Monthly rates for private nurseries can range between 3,500–8,000 DKK depending on the location, program, and whether meals or extended care (like early drop-off) are included.
Carefully review contracts—including notice periods, trial weeks, sick days, and holidays. Many private providers require a three-month deposit or notice period.
Top Services and Companies Providing Child Care for Foreigners in Denmark
- International Daycare & Preschool Copenhagen (IDPC)
Located in the heart of Copenhagen, IDPC serves children between 1 to 6 years of age in a fully English-speaking environment. Their curriculum blends Danish play-based methods with international themes. Parents praise their daily updates via an app, international staff, and diverse student community. Spots are limited, so apply early. - Little House International Preschool
Situated in Frederiksberg, this private bilingual preschool caters to international families and includes instruction in English and Danish. The staff is trained to help children transition from different cultural backgrounds and focus on emotional and social development. Monthly tuition starts around 5,500 DKK. - International School of Hellerup – Early Years
A well-established name among international schools, ISH offers an Early Years program ideal for expat families planning to stay long-term in Denmark. They follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum even at an early level, providing a globally familiar structure within a holistic care environment. - Global Kidz
Based in Copenhagen and Aarhus, Global Kidz specializes in afterschool programs and private daycares with a multicultural focus. Their staff includes English- and Spanish-speaking educators, and they host multicultural celebrations that embrace different traditions and holidays. - Mothercare Vuggestue & Børnehave
This private daycare in Nordhavn, Copenhagen focuses on small group sizes, organic meals, and bilingual communication in English and Danish. It’s praised for its warm environment, plus their staff regularly communicates with international parents about progress and learning goals. - Flying Kids International Preschool
Located in Lyngby, north of Copenhagen, Flying Kids caters to children from various international backgrounds. Their flexible hours and strong expat parent network make them an excellent choice for foreign families employed in the nearby science and tech hubs.
Related Services for Expats with Young Children in Denmark
Finding the best child care in Denmark for foreigners is often just the first step in settling into your new environment as an expat parent. There are several other services you may want to explore to make your transition smoother and ensure your child’s development, comfort, and social integration. From language support and family healthcare to activities that help young children thrive, many services are available specifically for international families living in Denmark.
Here are six important service categories that might be highly relevant for foreign parents in Denmark:
- International Family Doctors and Pediatricians – Multilingual healthcare professionals who specialize in treating expat children.
- Language and Cultural Classes for Kids – Danish lessons, bilingual tutoring, and cultural workshops for young children.
- Private Babysitting and Nanny Services – On-demand or long-term caregivers fluent in English or other common expat languages.
- Parent Networking and Expat Playgroups – Community groups offering peer support, meetups, and child-friendly events.
- Moving Services for Families – Child-conscious moving companies that help transition homes with minimal stress for kids.
- International Schools with Early Years Programs – Options for children transitioning from daycare to school, offering globally recognized curriculums.
Conclusion: Best Child Care in Denmark for Foreigners
From navigating public enrollment platforms in a new language to understanding Danish pedagogical practices, every step of the process can bring new questions—especially when you’re doing it all in a different country.
Fortunately, with a growing number of private and international child care options tailored to expats, families can more easily find solutions that meet their language needs, cultural expectations, and educational values. Whether you choose a bilingual preschool, a structured international early program, or an inclusive playgroup, Denmark offers well-regulated, child-first care with a strong societal investment in young children.
FAQs: Best Child Care in Denmark for Foreigners
1. Can I access public child care as a non-Danish citizen?
Yes, all residents of Denmark with a CPR number are eligible for public child care, including expats. You must apply through your local kommune and may need a MitID to access online registration.
2. How early should I apply for the best child care in Denmark for foreigners?
As early as possible. In cities like Copenhagen or Aarhus, it’s common to apply even before the child is born. This is to reserve a spot at your preferred institution. Waitlists can exceed 6 months.
3. How much does the best child care in Denmark for foreigners typically cost in Denmark?
Public child care costs between 1,500–3,500 DKK/month with subsidies, while private or international care can cost upwards of 5,000 DKK/month. This depends on services and location.
4. Do Danish caregivers speak English?
Many do, especially in urban areas and international institutions. However, public nurseries primarily operate in Danish, so it’s important to inquire during your search.
5. What is the difference between ‘vuggestue’ and ‘børnehave’?
‘Vuggestue’ refers to care for children aged 6 months to 3 years. And ‘børnehave’ serves children aged 3 to 6 years. Additionally, both are part of Denmark’s early childhood education system.
6. Can I get financial support as an expat?
Yes, most residents are eligible for state subsidies based on income. Some municipalities also offer reduced rates for low-income families and single parents.
