In recent months, We have seen an increasing wave of foreigners migrating to Malta along with their families. That is why we have prepared this guide for you to understand how the process of registering children in day care centers, as they are known here: 'childcare in Malta', works. It is common for parents to leave their children with a babysitter or in a day care center while they work. Sometimes, getting a babysitter is out of budget. At Boom Studies we recommend you to opt for a daycare center, 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 centers in Malta.
Schemes under which day-care centers operate in Malta 
Day care centers 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 paid one. For children from 3 years of age, the model is different. Some of the nurseries are hybrids, i.e., you can start by paying and when you meet the requirements, you will be able to move to a free scheme. In the case of hybrid day care centers, the parent should check with the day care center to find out what documents are required, the hourly rate, registration fees and if there are any additional costs.
How does the payment scheme work in day care centers in Malta?
If you want to enroll your child in a pay-as-you-go day care center, you only need to complete the registration forms and pay the fee. The value of the fee can be from 50 euros to 150 euros and is not subject to reimbursement. After that, you will be asked to complete a schedule and attendance days selection form. This process will have to be done in advance each month, in order to schedule the corresponding space. Once the child is enrolled, he/she will be able to attend at the agreed times and days. Each day care center has different prices, activities and methods. We recommend you to 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 day care centers 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 government entity decides in favor, the child, under 3 years of age, will be able to attend the day care center of his or her parents' choice, free of charge. You will be informed of the available hours in the letter of acceptance.
How to choose a day care center for my child who has just arrived 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 daycare centers near your home address. You will also find a list divided by city, although we recommend that you verify if the entity is still operating. After choosing the daycare center of your choice, you can make an in-person or online appointment (depending on each institution) to learn about the benefits, care model and infrastructure.
What is the child care model like?
Foreign children who are registered in the childcare center will receive quality care. Activities in the childcare centers are varied, involving early learning and peer socialization. Each childcare center has internal rules, but in general, they have models that encourage children's independence through daily activities. Usually, childcare centers in Malta are open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Day care centers 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, even in some, English and Maltese are mixed. This should not be a concern. Children learn quite fast 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 first we were a little afraid 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 daycare providers have learned Spanish words to make him feel more integrated. 
Now he understands very well the commands that his teachers give him, and although he still does not speak English, he has been able to tell us some words or phrases that are commonly used and he is becoming more and more interested in knowing how to say one word or another. My wife and I are pleased with how he has evolved with his socialization 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 Gomez
How to start the process to emigrate with my family to Malta?
Now that you know what steps you need to take to register your child at the daycare center 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 consultant. At Boom Studies we can provide you with complete advice on the English course or higher education 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!
