Last updated: 23 April 2026 · The first day of school in Germany takes place between mid-August and early September 2026, depending on the federal state (Bundesland). Individual dates are usually published by schools 4–6 weeks in advance.
The first day of school is a special moment – for your child and for you. From choosing the right school backpack to the traditional sweet cone (Schultüte) and the school starter celebration, there's plenty to prepare. With our step-by-step guide, you can approach starting school in 2026 with confidence and turn the big day into an unforgettable experience.
Your Roadmap to the First Day of School
Good preparation doesn't start in the school holiday week beforehand. This timeline shows you what to tackle and when:
The 6 Phases of Starting School
From the first planning steps to the early weeks of school – stress-free, step by step.
Start planning
Ask the school for the exact start date, pencil in holiday days on the calendar, and begin drafting a guest list for the celebration. Start researching school backpacks – many parents begin shopping as early as spring.
Buy the school backpack
The most important purchase. Have your child try on different models – packed, not empty. You'll find more on buying criteria and brands further down in the guide.
Prepare the school starter cone
Get a blank cone and decorating materials (or buy a ready-made one). Crafting it together with your child builds excitement. Filling ideas further below.
Organise the celebration
Send out invitations, sort out the venue/catering, get decorations. Keep the guest list manageable – the first day is usually in the morning, with the celebration straight after.
Celebrate the big day
Have the school backpack ready, hand over the sweet cone, take photos. It's an emotional day – show your child how proud you are. After the school celebration, take a short break before your own party.
Support the settling-in period
Short school days at first, then a full timetable. Establish a homework routine, pack a varied lunchbox, and listen every day. If in doubt, speak to the teacher.
The Start-of-School Checklist at a Glance
Organise yourself around three categories: what your child needs (school kit), what goes in the sweet cone, and what's needed for the celebration.
School Kit
- School backpack with lunchbox compartment
- Filled pencil case
- PE bag with sports kit
- Indoor shoes for the classroom
- Rain jacket & hat
- Lunchbox + water bottle
- Reflectors & hi-vis vest
Sweet Cone Contents
- Sweets (in moderation)
- A book or audiobook
- Small toy
- Lunchbox
- Water bottle
- Eraser & pencil sharpener
- Name labels for exercise books
For the Celebration
- Invitations 4 weeks ahead
- Camera/smartphone charged
- Cake or catering
- Decorations in favourite colours
- Games for other children
- Small gift idea for friends
- Set up a photo corner
School Backpacks for Year 1 – The Buying Guide
The school backpack is the most important gift for the first day of school. It will accompany your child for the next 4 years on the school run and, above all, needs to be ergonomic, safe and practical for everyday use. Here are the 6 key buying criteria for parents of Year 1 pupils.
The 6 Buying Criteria for the First School Backpack
1. DIN Standard 58124
A mandatory standard in Germany. At least 20% fluorescent surface plus 10% reflective strips for visibility at dusk.
2. Empty Weight
A maximum of 1.3 kg. When packed, the backpack shouldn't weigh more than 10–12% of the child's body weight – so for a 25 kg child, that's 2.5–3 kg.
3. Ergonomics
Padded shoulder straps, hip belt, adjustable back system. The backpack should sit on the back, not resting on the bottom.
4. Height Adjustment
For Year 1 pupils (110–125 cm tall), there are special "flex" systems available. It can grow with your child for 3–4 years.
5. Capacity & Compartments
18–22 litres is enough. Main compartment for books, secondary compartment for the pencil case, lunchbox pocket, side pockets for water bottles.
6. Design & Motif
Let your child have a say – they need to love this backpack for 4 years. Interchangeable magnetic motifs offer flexibility if their taste changes.
The Leading Brands for Year 1 Pupils
Ergobag
Scandinavian design, very lightweight, made from recycled PET bottles. Swappable magnetic motifs.
Step by Step
A German classic, known for sturdy construction and a wide range of designs. Also available as combination sets.
Scout
A reliable brand with classic design. Long-lasting backpacks, often a favourite among German parents.
Coocazoo
A growing carrying system suitable from Year 1 through to Year 10. Cool design, popular with children and teenagers alike.
DerDieDas
An ergonomics specialist. The ErgoFlex model is especially lightweight and popular with parents.
Lässig / Satch
Satch from Year 3 onwards, Lässig for Year 1 pupils. Focused on recycled materials and design.
Important when buying: Always let your child try on the backpack before buying. A packed backpack feels very different from an empty one. Most school backpacks in our shop come with detailed size and weight specifications.
How Much Does a Good School Backpack Cost?
- Entry-level (€100–160): solid quality, usually without accessories
- Mid-range (€160–240): set including pencil case, PE bag and rain cover
- Premium (€240–300): top-tier ergonomics, sustainable materials, exclusive designs
The most commonly bought sets include 3–5 pieces: backpack, pencil case, pouch, PE bag, and exercise book box.
The Schultüte – Filling the Classic Sweet Cone the Right Way
The Schultüte (sweet cone) is a gift with over 200 years of tradition in Germany. Ideally, it's not just filled with sweets but reflects your child's personality too. Tried-and-tested contents include:
- Sweets: A moderate amount, ideally organic or tooth-friendly
- Book or audiobook: matched to their interests – dinosaurs, horses, space
- Small toy: a cuddly toy for the backpack, or a keyring
- Lunchbox and water bottle: engraved with their name is a nice touch
- First writing supplies: pencil sharpener, eraser, ruler, coloured pencils
- Name labels: for exercise books, pens and clothing
- Voucher: e.g. for a special outing with mum or dad
Tip: Don't overstuff the sweet cone – the wrapping paper crinkles more nicely when there's still some air inside. It's better to give more important gifts separately at the school starter celebration.
Planning the School Starter Celebration
The celebration should stay stress-free – for the whole family. Three practical tips:
- Keep it small: 10–15 guests is plenty. Close family, close friends, godparents. Too many guests can overwhelm a Year 1 child
- Plan the timing: school event in the morning, celebration in the early afternoon, with a short break in between. Children get tired in the afternoon
- Keep the food simple: cake and coffee is enough. Finger food and fruit skewers for the children. No need for a five-course meal
The Emotional Side – for Parents and Children
Starting school isn't just an organisational project – it's an emotional milestone too. Your child is stepping into the "big wide world" – and you're becoming a school-child's parent. Tips for the emotional side:
- Take nerves seriously: Tummy aches, poor sleep or tears are all normal. Calm and patience help
- Create routines: Adjust bedtime 4 weeks before school starts, and practise the breakfast routine
- Build excitement: Walk the route to school together, show them the school, and meet the teacher in person if possible
- Allow your own feelings: "My baby is growing up" – it's okay to feel that, and even to cry. Take plenty of photos, you'll treasure them
The First Weeks of School
After the first day, everyday routine begins – for you and your child. Important things to remember in the first weeks:
- Short school days: Usually just 3–4 hours at first. Lunch at home
- Homework routine: A fixed spot, a fixed time. 15–30 minutes is enough to start with
- Varied lunchbox: Wholegrains, fruit, vegetables, nuts – energy for concentration
- Listen every day: How was your day? What did you learn? What was fun?
- If problems arise: Speak to the teacher early. Take bullying, being overwhelmed or boredom seriously
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting School
When does the first day of school take place in 2026?
In Germany, it varies between mid-August and early September depending on the federal state. Schools usually confirm exact dates from May/June 2026.
When should I buy the school backpack?
From spring (March–May) is ideal – that's when the widest range of models is available. Many retailers hold school backpack events with personal advice. The backpack should be ready at home by July at the latest.
How much does a good school backpack cost in 2026?
Entry-level from €100, mid-range €160–240 (usually with an accessory set), premium €240–300. Given it'll be used for 4 years, investing in quality pays off.
What should go in the sweet cone (Schultüte)?
A moderate amount of sweets, a book, a small toy, writing supplies (pencil sharpener, eraser, coloured pencils), a lunchbox, water bottle, and name labels. Don't overstuff it – it's better to give important gifts separately.
How big should the school starter celebration be?
10–15 guests is plenty. Just closest family and friends. The celebration should be in the early afternoon so children aren't overtired. Simple food (cake, finger food) is better than an elaborate menu.
How can I prepare my child for starting school?
Walk the route to school together, visit the school, and meet the teacher in person if possible. Adjust bedtime 4 weeks beforehand. Practise breakfast and getting-dressed routines. Build excitement with books about starting school.
