The 5 best daycares in Zurich that parents truly trust
Finding the right daycare in Zurich is similar to looking for a house to live in. It can feel overwhelming, competitive, and downright exhausting. For the working or stay-at-home parents who juggle tasks and responsibilities, everything can take a toll.
Thankfully, the city is home to a wide selection of daycares, from Montessori programmes to play-based learning, each has a speciality tailored to fit every child.
So, whether it’s your first time choosing a nursery or you’re simply seeking a change in environment, these places go the extra mile to provide quality education and care for your child’s growth.
| How much is a daycare programme in Zurich? A daycare programme in Zurich typically ranges between CHF 500 and CHF 4,000, depending on its curriculum and learning techniques. Rates depend on the number of days your child will attend sessions. |
1. Krippe Kinderparadies
Address: Münchhaldenstrasse 33, 8008
Contact: +41 44 382 84 51
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM – 06:30 PM
Hidden in the Seefeld area, Krippe Kinderparadies is a peaceful retreat for kids. They cater to children aged 3 months to kindergarten age and establish a bilingual setup. They use both German and English in everyday tasks and routine.
What really stood out to me and the parents was how much the school values outside time. Whether they explore the lakeside and camp or simply let the children play in the grass, the centre ensures that nature is part of the day.
However, these outside activities are highly dependent on the weather for the day. Inclement conditions may compromise safety and make outdoor activities unsuitable for the kids.
Regardless, their curriculum creatively offers music, sensory play, early math, and storytelling. When it comes to activities, parents get informed and updated through an app, which is highly praised.
As for the meals, all are freshly prepared in-house using only organic and fresh ingredients.
Teachers take extremely good care of the children
“Our daughter has been at the Kita since July 2022 and we have been extremely happy. The teachers are loving, caring and our daughter cannot wait to go to there every single day. Teachers take extremely good care of the children and make sure they are entertained and busy. The nutrition seems amazing as our daughter became a very good eater since joining the KITA and is exposed to a wide variety of foods daily. ”
- Bara Calda, Google Review
The employees are creative and imaginative
“My son has been going to this daycare for over 2 years and I haven’t regretted a day! My child feels very comfortable. The employees are creative and imaginative and work very professionally and well prepared. I appreciate the values, the loving interaction and the way they promote the children’s curiosity and independence. The daily activities outside in the fresh air, the beautifully designed outdoor area, the forest days, the gym visits and the generous opening hours round off the perfect overall package!”
- Michelle H., Google Review
2. Little Learners Daycare
Address: Carl-Spitteler-Strasse 2, 8053
Contact: +41 44 422 86 69
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 06:45 PM
When I first visited Little Learners, I immediately noticed how homey and cosy the place felt. It’s a small, English-speaking nursery that goes the extra mile to help kids nurture their emotional and social aspects—both of which are very important.
However, because it operates entirely in English, the school may not be the best fit for families hoping to expose their children to Swiss German or have a bilingual environment early on.
Regardless, the school follows the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which blends structure with play. From what I saw, children aren’t forced to follow rigid routines; they’re guided through hands-on learning and creative play.
I love that the programme focuses on learning through play, building strong relationships, and teaching communication. Instead of teaching numbers and letters, they improve curiosity, confidence, and independence.
Another commendable aspect is that teachers make an effort to get to know each child. One-on-one sessions are scheduled to allow ample time for both parties to get to know each other and be comfortable.
The programmes and activities are well-designed
“We feel lucky having found this daycare for our son. The whole team is kind and friendly, and fully dedicated to creating a warm and thriving environment for the kids. The communication with parents is excellent and enables a trustful relationship. The programs and activities are well-designed and successfully nourish and stimulate all aspects of our son’s development. Highly recommended!”
- Rachelchen818, Google Review
They create a supportive and educational environment
“Little Learners Daycare is a gem! The staff is friendly, caring, and knowledgeable. They create a supportive and educational environment for the children. The facility is impeccably clean and well-maintained. My child is excited to go to daycare each day and comes home happy and engaged. I am grateful to have found such a wonderful daycare center for my little one. I highly recommend Little Learners Daycare!”
- Jeremy Hope, Trustburn Review
3. Globegarden Childcare
Address: Forchstrasse 370, 8008
Contact: +41 44 536 55 32
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Globegarden has several branches across the city, making it one of the well-known daycares in Zurich. They have one in Enge, near Stadelhofen, and in Oerlikon. This makes it a convenient option for parents juggling busy schedules.
They also boast of flexible setups. You can choose between part-time or full-time care, with some locations offering extended hours of childcare. Parents who juggle work and other responsibilities can attest to this.
Another aspect I noticed right away was the learning space—cosy reading areas, play kitchens, sensory tables, and even mini climbing areas. Each room is designed to encourage independent learning.
Additionally, teaching here is theme-based. In other words, each month has a different setup and activities.
They’re also bilingual when interacting with kids, using both English and German. Parents of international students stated that their children had an easier time adjusting because of this programme.
On the downside, since Globegarden has a larger network than most daycares, their approach leans more toward a systematic approach. Their programmes follow a common curriculum instead of personalising programmes based on each child.
The management is friendly, helpful, and always enthusiastic
“Wow, what a daycare center! I recently had the opportunity to visit the daycare center in Seldwyla. It’s a beautiful, detached house with a garden. What caught my attention here was the private kindergarten. It’s lovingly decorated and well-organized with various everyday activities. The management is friendly, helpful, and always enthusiastic. A wonderful place for children to discover the world.”
- Melanie Ackermann, Google Review
Very well equipped for the little ones
“Great daycare, very gentle and professional staff. Very well equipped for the little ones. Can only recommend!”
- Alexander Sh, Google Review
4. KiMi Krippen
Address: Flüelastrasse 51, 8047
Contact: +41 44 211 23 23
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
After finding out a friend had relocated to Zurich, we found ourselves looking for a daycare for their child. We were able to find KiMi Krippen, a German-speaking community-focused childcare centre.
However, the German-speaking environment could pose a challenge for those not familiar with the language, such as expats’ children.
Nevertheless, what stood out the most was how emotionally sensitive the teachers were. Each child was greeted with such joy and warmth that my friend’s daughter immediately felt at ease, even in the first session.
KiMi Krippen also has weekly planning boards that they share with the parents. It includes even the smallest details—meal plans, learning approaches, schedules, and minor activities.
Many parents love that the facilities have dedicated spaces for building projects, reading, arts and crafts, and play-based learning. There are even vegetable gardens for hands-on learning and to encourage healthy eating habits.
On the other hand, there are forest walks on Fridays. This programme stimulates curiosity and imagination while also encouraging physical activity. Kids can also deepen their connection to nature.
I am extremely satisfied with the service I received
“Kimi krippen ag is a great company to work with. The team is knowledgeable, friendly, and their attention to detail is exceptional. I am extremely satisfied with the service I received and would highly recommend them.”
- Danni Sra, Trustburn Review
The company exceeded my expectations
“The company exceeded my expectations with the level of service they provided. The team was professional, efficient, and their attention to detail was impressive. I am extremely satisfied with their work and would highly recommend them to others!”
- Hillary Johnson, Trustburn Review
5. Pop e Poppa
Address: Weinbergstrasse 137/13, 8006
Contact: +41 79 307 66 11
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Once I stepped inside Pop e Poppa’s place, I could tell that the owners had a well-thought-out programme for the kids. They have holistic pedagogy, sustainability through eco-friendly practices, and safe learning environments.
The kids are also introduced to the concept of environmentally friendly practices. They are taught how to separate waste into different bins, not to waste food, and to reuse materials for various projects. Most parents highlight this programme in their online reviews.
Children are encouraged to explore and express themselves through free play, art, sensory learning, and nature activities. During these times, the teachers guide rather than direct–this builds confidence through positive support instead of pressure.
As for updates, Pop e Poppa ensures that all parents are in the loop through constant updates. In fact, many parents have shared that they appreciated being included in their children’s learning journey.
However, since their programmes are highly sought after, expect to be waitlisted as a lot are also trying to enrol.
We particularly appreciate the diverse and great range of activities
“We have always had positive experiences with Pop e Poppa Weinberg. The staff is super competent, warm and takes time for each child individually. The rooms are lovingly designed and offer the children numerous opportunities to develop creatively and playfully. We particularly appreciate the diverse and great range of activities and the healthy diet. We are happy to have our offspring in such good hands. Absolutely recommended!”
- Elly-Sophia Heiniger, Google Review
Their staff is always friendly and accommodating
“I have been a loyal customer of Pop e poppa for several years now and I can confidently say that they are one of the best companies out there. Their service is impeccable and their staff is always friendly and accommodating. The website is user-friendly and I have never faced any issues while using their services. Keep up the good work, Pop e poppa!”
- James Staples, Trustburn Review