In recent months, we have seen an increasing wave of foreigners migrating to Malta together with their families. That is why we have prepared this guide for you to understand how the process of registering children in day care centres, as they are known here: 'childcare in Malta', works. It is common for parents to leave their children with a nanny or in a childcare centre while they work. Sometimes, getting a babysitter is out of budget. At Boom Studies we recommend you to opt for a childcare centre if this is your case. We know how important it is to be clear about everything, especially when it comes to your children., right? Below we tell you which models are in force, how they work and how to manage the process of registering your children in day care centres in Malta.
Schemes under which day-care centres operate in Malta 
Day care centres in Malta are for children from 3 months to 3 years of age and operate under two modalities. On the one hand, is the free scheme and, on the other hand, the fee-paying one. For children from 3 years of age, the model is different. Some of the kindergartens are hybrids, i.e., you can start by paying and when you meet the requirements, you can switch to a free scheme. In the case of hybrid kindergartens, the parent should check with the kindergarten what documents are required, the hourly rate, the registration fees and whether there are any additional costs.
How does the childcare payment scheme work in Malta?
If you want to enrol your child in a fee-paying kindergarten, all you have to do is fill in the enrolment forms and pay the fee. The value of the fee can range from 50 euros to 150 euros and is not subject to reimbursement. After that, you will be asked to complete a timetable and days of attendance selection form. This process will have to be done in advance each month, in order to schedule the corresponding space. Once the child is registered, he/she will be able to attend at the agreed times and days. Each nursery has different prices, activities and methods. We recommend you visit or consult with several, to choose the one that best suits your needs. Average price range: between 3 and 4.5 euros per hour.
Free childcare in Malta - how the model works
The free childcare scheme has been available since 2014 and provides childcare services for children of working parents. Under this scheme, children of foreign parents, who are working legally, are eligible to apply for the free childcare scheme in Malta, by submitting an application that the institution itself will manage. Once the governmental entity decides in favour, the child, under 3 years of age, will be able to attend the day-care centre of his or her parents' choice, free of charge. You will be informed of the available hours in the letter of acceptance.
How do I choose a nursery for my newly arrived child in Malta?
From Boom Studies, we have helped several families in all their processes on the island. Our students who have been accompanied, first start by enrolling their children under the payment scheme; which is the only option when you do not have a work permit. In this case, we suggest you first do a search for nurseries near your home address. You will also find a list divided by city, although we recommend that you check whether the entity is still operating. After choosing the nursery of your choice, you can make an appointment in person or online (depending on the institution) to find out about the benefits, the care model and the infrastructure.
What is the childcare model like?
Foreign children who are registered in the childcare centre receive quality care. Activities in childcare are varied, involving early learning and peer socialisation. Each childcare centre has its own internal rules, but in general, they have models that encourage children's independence through daily activities. Childcare centres in Malta are usually open from 8am to 6pm. Day care centres in Malta are regulated, although they are autonomous in many respects, they must meet certain basic requirements to ensure the safety, learning and adaptation of the child. Read our article about the most frequently asked questions about free childcare in Malta. here.
The language barrier in Maltese kindergartens
Are you worried that your child will not be able to cope with the language? This is perhaps the fear of some parents who are in the process of migrating to Malta with their children. It is true that English is spoken in Maltese kindergartens, and in some, English and Maltese are even mixed. This should not be a concern. Children learn quite quickly and adapt even more easily when they are younger. To make you feel more confident about this, we share with you the testimony of Sergio, one of our students who migrated with his family to Malta. 
"At the beginning we were a bit scared because our son speaks Spanish very well. We had doubts about whether he would be able to adapt to English in the same way. Although he has not yet mastered the language, his caregivers at the kindergarten have learned Spanish words to make him feel more integrated. 
He now understands the commands his teachers give him very well, and although he still does not speak English, he has been able to tell us some commonly used words or phrases and is becoming more and more interested in knowing how to say one word or another. My wife and I are happy with how he has evolved in relation to his socialisation and also with the language, which was our main concern. Thanks to the Boom team, who have accompanied us throughout our process of migrating to Malta with our son". - Sergio Gómez
How do I start the process to migrate with my family to Malta?
Now that you know what steps you need to take to register your child at the day care centre in your city, you are ready to start your immigration process as a family. If you need help with any of the processes for your trip, do not hesitate to contact your advisor. At Boom Studies we can provide you with comprehensive advice on the English language or higher education course that best suits your needs. We can also guide you on how to plan your trip from scratch, how to plan your academic and professional career on the island. Contact us and start the exciting adventure of a lifetime!
