What Is a Vuggestue and How Does Work Nursey in Denmark?

What is Vuggestue?

In a vuggestue, children are cared for by a team of trained pedagogical staff in a dedicated childcare center. The focus is on nurturing development through play, social interaction, and daily routines like meals and naps.

Children usually transition from vuggestue to børnehave around their third birthday, though the exact age varies.

Key features include:

Group-based care in a facility
Daily activities that support early development
Trained staff with pedagogical backgrounds
Meals and snacks typically included
Outdoor play and structured routines

Why choose Vuggestue?

Vuggestue offers a structured environment with a strong emphasis on social development, language, and independence. It also allows children to interact with a larger peer group, which can ease their later transition to børnehave.

While larger than dagpleje, vuggestue offers the advantage of a team of caregivers, which can provide more flexible coverage throughout the day.

When you sign up your child for an international private nursery here, you and/or your child needs a CPR (private nurseries are subsidized from the government and thus they need CPRs to proof the number of enrolled children).

Vuggestue vs. Dagpleje

Feature	Vuggestue	Dagpleje
Group size	Larger groups, often 10+ children	3–5 children
Setting	Institutional childcare facility	Childcarer’s private home
Staff	Team of pedagogues and assistants	One certified childminder
Atmosphere	Structured and social	Home-like, quieter

Example

Imagine you’re an expat parent returning to work after parental leave. You apply for a vuggestue spot through your municipality. Your child is placed in a daycare center where they spend the day with other toddlers, engage in guided play, eat meals with the group, and rest during nap time. Over time, they build friendships and become more independent, preparing them for the transition to børnehave.

Quick Tips for Expats

Register early—municipal daycare spots are in high demand, especially in larger cities.
Ask for a tour before accepting a placement to get a feel for the environment.
Fees are income-adjusted and set by the municipality.
Some vuggestuer are part of integrated institutions, offering a smooth transition to børnehave.
Bring outdoor clothing—children go outside daily, regardless of the weather