Finding appropriate childcare shouldn’t be a problem. Obviously the best place to source babysitters is by asking friends and colleagues; even if they don’t have children they may know someone reliable. Berlin also has several experienced agencies for finding babysitters, day mothers or even part-time nannies. Ads sometimes spring up on playgrounds, or check the bulletin board at your nursery. Most Berliners pay babysitters €6 an hour but it can go as high as €10, especially if you use an agency.

Berlin also has a system of day mothers that are registered with child services and, if you aren’t already getting assistance for a nursery, this service may get paid for you. If you are a working single parent or both parents work, it’s also likely the city will pick up the tab. Visit the Jugendamt web pages for your district under www.berlin.de for more information. You’ll have to provide proof of employment, as well as proof of income – monthly fees are determined on a sliding scale. Once approved, the Jugendamt will match you with two or three potential mothers for you to interview.
Upscale hotels offer babysitting services, but few stores do, with the notable exception of IKEA, which will even offer you a place to keep your dog.