The former Neu car dealership and the adjacent repair shop were renovated to serve as the daycare center. The state capital of Wiesbaden is providing approximately 3.6 million euros to support the renovation, furnishing, and landscaping of the outdoor area. All five groups are now up and running. The facility is operated by the nonprofit Terminal for Kids gGmbH (TfK).

“Especially in a densely populated neighborhood like Westend, we need to explore new approaches to childcare. FlotteEnte shows how this can be achieved: with a great deal of creativity, a former car dealership has been transformed into a place for children and families. We need solutions like this if we want to provide neighborhood-based care where families actually need it,” said Andreas Kowol, Head of Social Affairs, in his welcoming remarks on site.

The repurposing of the existing building creates additional childcare spots without requiring a new plot of land. Modular rooms with a wood-frame construction have been integrated into the spacious former workshop hall. The existing spaces are used, among other things, as multipurpose and workshop rooms and offer the children a variety of opportunities for play, learning, and creative activities.

The daycare center also takes advantage of the unique features of the former car dealership in its play and activity areas: A play area with its own Bobby Car track was created on the former parking deck on the first floor. Part of the former workshop hall was opened up to the ceiling and designed as a spacious indoor/outdoor area. A large jungle climbing structure there invites children to climb, move, and explore. In the densely built-up Westend neighborhood, which has few green spaces and areas for physical activity, this provides the children with additional opportunities for play and exercise.

The educational approach is based on the situation-oriented approach and the Hessian Education and Upbringing Plan, and is supplemented by elements of the Reggio approach. Children are viewed as active creators of their own living environment. The spaces are designed around their interests and needs. The program includes, among other things, healthy nutrition, children’s yoga, art and creativity in the center’s own studio, as well as a wide range of physical activity options in the large gym. A therapy dog team is also part of the program. The offerings are complemented by a singing circle with piano accompaniment, regular field trips, and monthly visits to the children’s farm near Bad Schwalbach.

The name “FlotteEnte” evokes the history of the location. The former Citroën dealership “Neu” was an integral part of the Westend neighborhood for more than 65 years. With this name, the daycare center connects the building’s past with its new purpose for children and families.

Interested parents can register for a tour on the daycare center’s website, www.terminalforkids.de/flotteente (opens in a new tab). The management team, Janice Renneisen and Aytug Gün, will provide information about the facility, the educational concept, and the care services offered.