The cost of school supplies in Germany has been on the rise, with items such as pens and books increasing by 5 to 13% compared to the previous year. This has put financial pressure on families with children in school, as they struggle to afford the necessary supplies for their kids. Lela Griessbach, an academic in Berlin, highlighted the shock of seeing the long and expensive list of required supplies for her children. The cost for one child can add up to €300, making it a significant expense for families.
While parents in need can receive financial support of €195 for school supplies per child, the Berlin Child Protection Association believes this amount is insufficient. The high costs are not limited to just school supplies, as items such as backpacks can cost up to €150, especially those designed to protect a child’s shoulders and back. Additionally, the cost of school lunches varies between states, with Berlin offering free lunches for grades one to six, while in Hamburg, they can cost up to €4.35.
Despite the availability of free education in Germany, more parents are opting to send their children to private schools, leading to rising costs. Marcel Helbig, an expert in educational trajectories, suggests that the increasing immigration to Germany may be contributing to this trend. He notes that private schools typically have a lower percentage of migrants and poorer children, which could be a factor in parents’ decision to opt for private education for their children.
Inflation in Germany has reached its lowest level in over three years, but working parents like Griessbach continue to feel the financial strain. As a working mom, she also has to bear the additional cost of a babysitter after hours while she works, adding to the financial burden. Griessbach compares the support system in her native Georgia, where relatives play a greater role in helping take care of children, to the lack of support she receives in Germany.
The rising costs of school supplies and other related expenses are making it increasingly difficult for families with children in school to make ends meet in Germany. Griessbach’s experience highlights the challenges that working parents face in trying to balance work, childcare, and the financial responsibilities that come with sending their children to school. With costs continuing to rise, it is essential for policymakers to address these challenges and provide adequate support to families in need.
