Many parents, especially those choosing an educational facility for their child for the first time, wonder how to enroll a child in a kindergarten in Warsaw. Although the process may seem complicated at first glance, once you understand the rules, it becomes much clearer. However, it's worth preparing well in advance, as the demand for kindergarten spots in the capital—both public and private—is very high, and the recruitment schedule can be tight.
Enrollment in public kindergartens – deadlines and rules
If you're interested in enrolling your child in a public kindergarten, you must follow the official schedule announced by the City of Warsaw. Each year, usually in February or March, the electronic registration for municipal kindergartens begins. At that time, parents can register their child in the online system, selecting up to several institutions in order of preference.
The recruitment process includes several stages: registration in the system, submitting the required documents (in person or electronically), publication of the list of qualified candidates, and then confirming your intent to enroll. It's important to note that failing to confirm the placement within the required time will result in losing it.
Admission criteria for public kindergartens are strictly defined. Factors considered include the number of siblings, single parenthood, disability certificates, place of residence, and whether parents pay taxes in Warsaw. If candidates receive the same number of points, the order of application submission can be the deciding factor.
How to enroll your child in a private kindergarten in Warsaw?
The enrollment process for private kindergartens is completely different. Private facilities in Warsaw conduct recruitment year-round, and admission is often based on the order of applications or an individual meeting with the parents. That’s why it’s worth acting early—preferably several months in advance, or even sooner if you are targeting a prestigious institution.
The first step is usually making a phone call or filling out an application form on the kindergarten’s website. Then, parents are invited for an informational meeting, and the child may be invited to attend an open or adaptation day. Once the child is accepted, a contract is signed, and a registration fee is paid.
Unlike public facilities, private kindergartens offer greater flexibility—not only in terms of operating hours or educational programs but also in the enrollment process itself. Many allow the child to start attending in any month, provided there are available spots.
What documents are needed for enrollment?
Regardless of whether you're choosing a public or private kindergarten, parents should prepare several basic documents. These usually include:
- the child’s birth certificate (for review),
- parents' identification documents,
- documents confirming eligibility criteria (e.g., proof of residence, disability certificates, confirmation of single parenthood),
- any relevant medical documents if the child requires special care,
- the child’s PESEL number.
In the case of private kindergartens, additional information may be required, such as dietary preferences, allergies, pick-up times, or authorized pick-up persons.
Helping your child adapt to a new environment
Before a child begins their preschool education, many parents worry about how the adaptation process will go. Kindergartens in Warsaw, both public and private, usually offer open days or adaptation weeks, during which children can explore the new environment, meet the caregivers, and interact with other kids. This is an important stage that often determines the child's future sense of safety and comfort.
It’s also a good idea to talk to your child beforehand about what to expect at kindergarten, read books on the topic together, and involve them in preparations—such as packing a backpack or choosing indoor shoes.
How to choose the best kindergarten?
Before deciding how to enroll your child in a kindergarten in Warsaw, it’s worth thinking about what your expectations are for the institution. Are you looking for a foreign language program? Small groups? An individualized approach? Proximity to your home or workplace?
Warsaw offers a wide range of kindergartens with various profiles—from traditional and artistic to language-based, Montessori, or forest kindergartens. A good approach is to visit selected institutions, talk to the management, view the classrooms, and learn about the daily schedule.
Final thoughts
When enrolling your child in a kindergarten, the key decision is whether you're aiming for a public or private facility. For public kindergartens, you need to follow the city’s recruitment schedule, register in the electronic system, and prepare the necessary documents. For private kindergartens, you contact the selected facility directly, sign your child up, and complete the paperwork on an individual basis.
While the enrollment process may seem stressful, proper preparation and quick action significantly increase your chances of securing a place in your desired institution. Most importantly, the kindergarten you choose should be a safe and nurturing environment that supports your child’s development and brings joy to their everyday experience.
