Why we call our home nurseries “Mini-Kita”

Language shapes perception. And sometimes a single word decides whether a childcare model is understood – or overlooked.

That is exactly why we decided to refer to our Tagesfamilien as Mini-Kitas.

Between criticism and clarification:

Yes, we have received criticism for this. From professionals who wrote to us: "Qualified childcare professionals (EFZ Fachfrau/Fachmann Betreuung Kind) feel they are not being taken seriously." The accusation: Home nurseries are not equivalent to Kitas, so we should not position ourselves linguistically so close to them.

Our clarification: We are not doing Kita-bashing. On the contrary: Kitas are an important and valuable form of childcare. At the same time, home nurseries are also a professional model – and by no means "a mom from the neighborhood who occasionally looks after children for a small token of appreciation."

Our home nurseries are closely accompanied by Nidino, internally trained, and educated through the umbrella association kibesuisse. Many of our caregivers also hold the official qualification EFZ Fachfrau/Fachmann Betreuung Kind and bring several years of childcare experience.

Why "Mini-Kita"?
For us, the term has two meanings:

1. Dialect and closeness: In Zurich German, "Mini-Kita" can also mean "my Kita." We like this play on words because it expresses what we are about: Kita-like care, but in a very personal, family-like setting.
2. Familiarity and orientation: Many parents search for childcare almost exclusively under the keyword "Kita." The model home nursery is far less known – and therefore often not even considered by expecting parents. With the term "Mini-Kita" we build a bridge: it makes visible that Tagesfamilien are a professional alternative.

Our claim:
Our home nurseries offer equally professional childcare as Kitas – but with a different focus: less group pedagogy, more individuality, closeness, and everyday experiences.

Through training, guidance, and binding standards, we ensure that quality is always guaranteed. Children grow up with us in a safe, loving environment – just as in a Kita, only in a more personal framework.

When we say: "With us, children are cared for in a pedagogically professional way, like in a Kita – but in a family environment," we mean exactly that:

• Aligned with Kita standards: Our Tagesfamilien follow clear guidelines on safety, quality checks, and pedagogical principles.
• With specific Tagesfamilien training: Through Nidino and the umbrella association kibesuisse, our caregivers are specifically trained for the role – complemented by practical experience and, in many cases, a completed qualification as EFZ Fachfrau/Fachmann Betreuung Kind.
• In a family environment: small groups, close bonds, and flexibility for parents and children.

We stand for a both-and approach: Kitas are important. Tagesfamilien are important too.

With the term "Mini-Kita" we want to ensure that parents have both models in mind – and can choose the one that best fits their everyday life.

In doing so, we not only create linguistic clarity but also raise new awareness: Home nurseries are professional and valuable – an equal form of childcare alongside Kitas.

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