Living in Germany with children means engaging with the school system. German for Parents is essential to understand your child’s education and communicate with teachers. Basic German skills help parents stay informed, support their children, and be part of the school community.
Example: “Ich möchte mit dem Lehrer sprechen.” – I would like to speak with the teacher. (Pronunciation: [ɪç ˈmœçtə mɪt deːm ˈleːʁɐ ˈʃpʁɛçn̩])
Why Parents in Germany Need to Learn Basic School German
Living in Germany with children means engaging with the school system. German for Parents is essential to understand your child’s education and communicate with teachers. Basic German skills help parents stay informed, support their children, and be part of the school community.
Example: “Ich möchte mit dem Lehrer sprechen.” – I would like to speak with the teacher. (Pronunciation: [ɪç ˈmœçtə mɪt deːm ˈleːʁɐ ˈʃpʁɛçn̩])
How to Understand German School Types and Education System
Germany has several school types: Grundschule (elementary), Hauptschule, Realschule, Gymnasium, and more. Understanding these helps parents support their child’s path.
- Grundschule – Primary school (Grades 1–4)
- Gymnasium – Academic secondary school leading to university
Example: “Mein Kind besucht die Realschule.” – My child attends the Realschule.
How to Register Your Child at a German School – Step-by-Step
- Visit the local Schulamt (school authority)
- Bring documents: Passport, Anmeldung, Impfpass
- Fill out the registration form
- Schedule a school tour or introduction day
Useful phrase: “Ich möchte mein Kind anmelden.” – I would like to register my child.
Common German Phrases for Talking to Teachers
“Wie geht es meinem Kind in der Schule?” – How is my child doing in school?
“Gibt es etwas, worüber wir sprechen sollten?” – Is there something we should talk about?
How to Introduce Yourself as a Parent in German
“Guten Tag, ich bin die Mutter von Ali.” – Hello, I am Ali’s mother.
“Ich möchte mich vorstellen.” – I would like to introduce myself.
Key Questions to Ask During Parent-Teacher Meetings
- “Wie kann ich mein Kind beim Lernen unterstützen?” – How can I support my child in learning?
- “Gibt es Probleme im Unterricht?” – Are there any problems in class?
How to Prepare for School Meetings in German (with Printable Phrases)
Make a list of your questions in German and bring any documents. Practice saying:
“Ich habe ein paar Fragen zum Schulverlauf meines Kindes.” – I have a few questions about my child’s progress.
German Phrases for Parent-Teacher Emails and Communication Apps
- “Sehr geehrte Frau Müller, ich möchte einen Termin vereinbaren.” – Dear Ms. Müller, I would like to schedule a meeting.
- “Könnten Sie mich bitte anrufen?” – Could you please call me?
Useful German Vocabulary for School and Education
| German | English |
|---|---|
| Lehrer / Lehrerin | Teacher (male/female) |
| Schule | School |
| Hausaufgaben | Homework |
German Words and Phrases for Kindergarten and Elementary School
“Mein Kind geht in den Kindergarten.” – My child goes to kindergarten.
“Er/sie ist in der ersten Klasse.” – He/she is in first grade.
Important School-Related German Forms and Abbreviations Explained
- Zeugnis – School report
- AG – Arbeitsgemeinschaft (after-school club)
Understanding School Reports and Notices in German
Watch for comments like “arbeitswillig” (willing to work) or “verhält sich ruhig” (behaves quietly).
Understanding German School Holidays, Schedules, and Events
Each Bundesland has its own Ferienkalender (holiday calendar). Keep track on your school’s website or app.
What to Say in German When Your Child Is Sick or Absent
“Mein Kind ist krank und bleibt zu Hause.” – My child is sick and will stay home.
“Er/Sie kann heute nicht zur Schule gehen.” – He/She can’t go to school today.
How to Write Excuse Notes and Emails in German
“Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, mein Sohn war am Montag krank und konnte die Schule nicht besuchen.” – Dear Sir or Madam, my son was sick on Monday and could not attend school.
How to Communicate with School Staff (Secretaries, Administrators, etc.)
“Ich habe eine Frage zum Stundenplan meines Kindes.” – I have a question about my child’s schedule.
“Wo finde ich das Sekretariat?” – Where can I find the school office?
German Phrases for Helping with Homework and School Projects
“Lass uns die Hausaufgaben gemeinsam machen.” – Let’s do the homework together.
“Worum geht es bei diesem Projekt?” – What is this project about?
Tips for Building Confidence in German as a Parent
Practice short conversations, use language learning apps, and attend school events to build comfort and vocabulary.
Downloadable PDF: German Phrases for Parents and Schools
Click here to download a printable guide with the most useful phrases in German for Parents.
Conclusion: Stay Involved in Your Child’s Education with Simple German
With the right tools and common phrases, you can stay actively involved in your child’s school life. German for Parents is not just about language—it’s about participation, support, and confidence.
Download your free PDF guide above to practice useful phrases at home and during meetings.
FAQs: Talking to German Teachers as a Non-Native Speaker
How do I introduce myself to a German teacher?
You can say: Guten Tag, ich bin [Ihr Name], die Mutter/der Vater von [Name Ihres Kindes]. (Hello, I’m [your name], the mother/father of [your child’s name].)
What is the German phrase for “parent-teacher meeting”?
The phrase is Elternsprechtag, which means “parents’ consultation day.”
How do I write a school excuse note in German?
Start with: Mein Kind [Name] konnte am [Datum] die Schule nicht besuchen, weil … (My child [name] couldn’t attend school on [date] because …)
What should I say when my child is sick?
You can say: Mein Kind ist krank und bleibt heute zu Hause. (My child is sick and will stay at home today.)
How can I ask if my child is doing well in school?
Ask: Wie macht sich mein Kind im Unterricht? (How is my child doing in class?)
