In many families, both parents take care of raising the children. One parent sometimes works less and spends more time with the children. This is typically the mother. However, an increasing number of fathers are also choosing to take time off work to look after their children.

Some parents choose to separate. But many continue to share responsibility for caring for their children, even if they no longer live together. In many families, there is only one parent. These are known as single parents. Then there are rainbow families, where children are raised by two mothers or two fathers. Blended families are when couples bring children from previous relationships into a new household. In foster families, children are cared for by relatives or foster parents.

Life with children begins during pregnancy. If you have any questions about pregnancy, you can go to a pregnancy counselling service.

During pregnancy, it’s important to have regular check-ups with an obstetrician or gynaecologist. They will answer your questions and monitor the health of your baby. A midwife has similar responsibilities. She provides advice and support during your pregnancy and after the birth of your child. The midwife is also present during delivery. Your doctor can help you find an obstetrician or gynaecologist and/or a midwife. Many women also attend antenatal classes, which help them prepare for labour and birth. This is also a good opportunity to meet other expectant mothers.

If you have a permanent job, you can take maternity leave before your child is born. During this time, you are not required to work. In most professions, this period begins six weeks before the due date. Maternity leave lasts for a minimum of 14 weeks in total and may be extended. During this period, your employer cannot terminate your employment.

After maternity leave, you can take parental leave. This means you stay at home to look after your child. During this time, you do not work. You can take parental leave for up to three years, but you can also choose to take just one or two years. Part of this parental leave can be taken any time until your child turns eight. This option is available to each parent. After this period, you can return to your job.

It’s not always easy balancing work and family life. In Germany, parental allowance (Elterngeld) is designed to help young families. During the first 12 months of parental leave, you receive parental allowance. If your partner also takes parental leave, this extends to 14 months. There is also ElterngeldPlus, which you can receive for up to 24 months. How much parental allowance you receive depends on your net salary. You have to apply for parental allowance. You also receive it even if you are not currently employed.

Bringing up children costs a lot of money. This is why families in Germany receive money from the state. You can use this child benefit to ensure that your child has a good life and a good future. You must apply for child benefit from the Federal Employment Agency. Child benefit is provided at least until your child turns 18. If your income is low, you may be eligible for additional money.

Your child’s health is important. That’s why children in Germany, have regular medical check-ups with a paediatrician. During these check-ups, the doctor examines your child. This enables them to recognise potential problems and illnesses at an early stage. For example, the doctor will check your child’s weight and height. They will make sure your child is developing well. The doctor records the results of each examination in a booklet. The examinations are free of charge. It’s important not to forget any of these medical check-ups. The paediatrician will also give your child vaccinations.

Do you have a child with a disability or chronic illness? For more information, read the section Inclusion: Living with a disability.

There are various childcare options in Germany. Read the Childcare section.

There are lots of things you can do with your children in your free time. Outdoor playgrounds are perfect for young children. Older children might like to join a sports club. In the summer, there are outdoor swimming pools, in the winter, there are indoor pools. During school holidays, towns often provide affordable activity programmes for children. Ask at your local youth welfare office or town hall. There are also lots of clubs that offer leisure activities specifically for children. For more details, read the Leisure section.

In Germany, children often get together to play with their friends. They visit each other’s homes and occasionally have sleepovers. Lots of children celebrate their birthdays with a party. They invite their friends to celebrate with them. These parties are often held at home. There are fun games and cake. But sometimes, parents organise outings with the children.

Family life isn’t always easy, and bringing up children can be tiring. Adolescence, when children transition to adulthood, can be an especially challenging time. Differences in expectations, jealousy or unexpected events can lead to conflict and crises within the family. Counselling centres are available to help you solve problems together.

Are there serious problems in your family? Is there physical or sexualised violence? Remember that words can also be a form of violence. Seek help immediately. Emergency hotlines and counselling services are available. Don’t hesitate to reach out. There are also specialised support services for women.