Relocated from America to Germany.

In Germany, the elementary school system differs notably from its American counterpart, with key distinctions such as the length of the school day, the integration of kindergarten, and specific school supply requirements.

Unlike in the USA, German children go directly from kindergarten (integrated into the last years of kindergarten) to elementary school, without a kindergarten year as we know it. This seamless transition is facilitated by the "Vorschule" program, a preparatory stage for school-aged children, where they are introduced to letters, numbers, and other essential skills.

Elementary school days in Germany are much shorter than an American school day, usually starting between 7:30 and 8 am and ending between 12 and 1:00 pm. This difference continues into the school year, with German children having more shorter breaks throughout the year compared to American students. The summer vacation, for instance, lasts a total of six weeks, but it's interrupted by two weeks of Easter vacation and two weeks of Pentecost vacation.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the German elementary school experience is the "schultuete," a giant triangular bag filled with various items, given to first-graders on their first day of school. This tradition is a symbol of the excitement and anticipation surrounding the beginning of a new educational journey.

Another unique feature is the independence that German children exhibit from the second grade onwards. They may walk, ride scooters, or use public transportation to get to school without their parents. This independence extends to their travel to school, with elementary school children often travelling in groups with friends.

School supplies are taken very seriously in Germany. Teachers provide a list of specific items required, including certain sized notebooks, labeled school supplies, and a large and expensive school backpack. Local stationery stores are familiar with these school supply lists and can provide the necessary items when presented with the list. Buying this backpack is a kind of ritual for first-graders.

After completing primary school in Germany, children typically attend one of three school types from grades 5 to 12: Hauptschule (or Mittelschule), Realschule, or Gymnasium; additionally, some attend Gesamtschulen, which combine these three tracks in one school.

Safety is a priority in German schools, with student crossing guards ensuring the safety of students at street crossings. The first day of school is usually shorter than usual, often ending between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm.

Many families celebrate the first day of school with a special outing or taking pictures, marking this significant milestone in their children's lives. Despite the differences, the shared goal of nurturing and educating young minds remains the same, making the German elementary school system a unique yet familiar landscape for children everywhere.