Last updated: 28 October 2026 · In Germany, the first day of school takes place between early August and mid-September 2027, depending on the federal state. Schools usually publish the exact dates 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 school cone and the first-day celebration, there's plenty to prepare. With our step-by-step guide, you can approach starting school in 2027 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 holiday week right before school begins. This timeline shows you what to tackle and when:
The 6 Phases of Starting School
From the first plans to the first weeks of school – stress-free, step by step.
Start planning
Ask the school for the exact start date, block off vacation days on your calendar, and draft a guest list for the celebration. Begin researching school backpacks – many parents start shopping as early as spring.
Buy the school backpack
The most important purchase. Have your child try on different models – packed, not empty. More on buying criteria and brands further below in the buying guide chapter.
Prepare the school cone
Get a blank school cone and decorating materials (or buy a ready-made one). Craft it together with your child – it builds anticipation. See content ideas further below.
Organise the celebration
Send out invitations, arrange the venue/catering, get decorations. Keep the guest list manageable – the first day of school is usually in the morning, with the celebration right after.
Celebrate the big day
Get the school backpack ready, hand over the school 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 the full timetable. Establish a homework routine, pack a varied lunchbox, and listen every day. If in doubt, speak to the teacher.
The First-Day-of-School Checklist at a Glance
Organise yourself around three categories: what your child needs (school gear), what goes in the school cone, and what's needed for the celebration.
School Gear
- School backpack with lunchbox compartment
- Filled pencil case
- Gym bag with sports kit
- Indoor shoes for the classroom
- Rain jacket & hat
- Lunchbox + water bottle
- Reflectors & safety vest
School Cone Contents
- Sweets (in moderation)
- A book or audiobook
- A small toy
- Lunchbox
- Water bottle
- Eraser & pencil sharpener
- Name labels for notebooks
For the Celebration
- Invitations 4 weeks ahead
- Camera/smartphone charged
- Cake or catering
- Decorations in favourite colours
- Games for other children
- Small gift ideas for friends
- Set up a photo corner
School Backpacks for First Grade – The Buying Guide
The school backpack is the most important gift for the first day of school. It will accompany your child on the school run for the next 4 years, and above all it needs to be ergonomic, safe and practical for everyday use. Here are the 6 most important buying criteria for parents of first-graders.
The 6 Buying Criteria for the First School Backpack
1. DIN Standard 58124
A mandatory standard in Germany. At least 20% fluorescent surface area plus 10% reflective strips for visibility at dusk.
2. Empty Weight
Maximum 1.3 kg. When packed, the backpack should weigh no more than 10–12% of the child's body weight – for a 25-kg child, that's 2.5–3 kg.
3. Ergonomics
Padded shoulder straps, hip belt, adjustable back system. The backpack should rest on the back, not on the buttocks.
4. Height Adjustment
For first-graders (110–125 cm in height), special "flex" systems are available. The backpack can grow with the child for 3–4 years.
5. Volume & Compartments
18–22 L is sufficient. A main compartment for books, a secondary one for the pencil case, a lunchbox compartment, and side pockets for water bottles.
6. Design & Pattern
Let your child have a say – they need to love the backpack for 4 years. Interchangeable magnetic designs offer flexibility if their taste changes.
The Most Important Brands for First-Graders
Step by Step
A German classic, known for sturdy construction and a wide range of designs. Also available as combo sets.
Scout
A reliable brand with classic design. Durable backpacks, often a favourite among German parents.
Coocazoo
A growing carrying system from grade 1 through grade 10. Cool design, popular with children and teenagers alike.
DerDieDas
An ergonomics specialist. The ErgoFlex model is particularly lightweight and popular with parents.
Lässig
Popular for first grade, with a focus on design.
Important when buying: Have your child try on the backpack before purchasing. A packed backpack feels different from an empty one. Most school backpacks in our shop include detailed dimensions and weight information.
How Much Does a Good School Backpack Cost?
- Entry-level: solid quality, usually without accessories
- Mid-range: set with pencil case, gym bag, rain cover
- Premium: top-notch ergonomics, materials, exclusive designs
The most commonly purchased sets include 3–5 pieces: backpack, pencil case, pouch, gym bag, and a pencil box.
The School Cone – Filling This Classic the Right Way
The school cone is a gift with over 200 years of tradition in Germany. Ideally, it's not just filled with sweets but also reflects your child's personality. Tried-and-tested contents:
- Sweets: A moderate amount, ideally organic or tooth-friendly
- Book or audiobook: matching your child's interests – dinosaurs, horses, space
- A small toy: a cuddly toy for the backpack, a keyring
- Lunchbox and water bottle: ideally engraved with their name
- First writing supplies: pencil sharpener, eraser, ruler, coloured pencils
- Name labels: for notebooks, pens and clothing
- Voucher: e.g. for an outing with mum/dad
Tip: Don't pack the school cone too full – the wrapping paper crinkles more nicely when there's still some air inside. It's better to give important gifts separately at the celebration.
Planning the First-Day Celebration
The celebration should stay stress-free – for the whole family. Three practical tips:
- Keep it small: 10–15 guests are plenty. Immediate family, close friends, godparents. Too many guests can overwhelm first-graders
- Plan the timing: school in the morning, celebration in the early afternoon, with a short break in between. Children get tired in the afternoon
- Keep food simple: cake and coffee are enough. Finger food and fruit skewers for the kids. 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. Your child is stepping into the "big wide world", and you're becoming a school-kid parent. Tips for the emotional side:
- Take the nerves seriously: stomach aches, poor sleep or tears are normal. Calm and patience help
- Establish routines: adjust bedtime 4 weeks before school starts, practise breakfast routines
- Build excitement: walk the school route together, show your child the school, meet the teacher in person if possible
- Allow your own feelings: "My baby is growing up" – it's okay to feel that, even to cry. Take lots of photos, you'll treasure them
The First Weeks of School
After the first day, everyday life begins – for you and your child. Important points for 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 at first
- Varied lunchbox: wholegrain, fruit, vegetables, nuts – energy for concentration
- Listen every day: How was your day? What did you learn? What was fun?
- If problems arise: talk 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 2027?
In Germany, depending on the federal state, between early August and mid-September. Your school will tell you the exact date.
When should I buy the school backpack?
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 at home by July at the latest.
How much does a good school backpack cost?
That depends on the brand, features and set size. Pay more attention to weight, back support and visibility than to price. Given that it will be used for 4 years, investing in quality pays off.
What should go in the school cone?
A moderate amount of sweets, a book, a small toy, writing supplies (pencil sharpener, eraser, coloured pencils), a lunchbox, a water bottle, name labels. Don't pack everything in at once – it's better to give gifts separately.
How big should the first-day celebration be?
10–15 guests are plenty. Just the 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 meal.
How can I prepare my child for starting school?
Walk the school route together, visit the school, meet the teacher in person if possible. Adjust bedtime 4 weeks in advance. Practise breakfast and dressing routines. Build excitement with books about starting school.
