What sort of child care is available here?
Child and Teen Services Overview
A full of array of programs are offered at both Spangdahlem and the Bitburg Annex. We have two Child Development Centers (CDC) as well as 2 American Youth Activity (AYA) Centers. Spangdahlem and Bitburg programs mirror each other so that all of the children of the Spangdahlem Community can reap the benefits. Once the family has become "members" of the CDC and/or AYA, the membership carries all through USAFE centers.
Child Care Programs on the Installation
Due to the lack of off-base child care facilities, it is highly recommended that you think about taking action on child care issues before PCSing to Spangdahlem. Both Child Development Centers and School Age Care programs have waiting lists. We encourage you to place your child/children on the appropriate waiting list as soon as possible. Spangdahlem AB also has a Family Day Care (FDC) program that strives to meet the diverse needs of the military community.
Child Care Programs in the Community
Child Care off base is normally through a private contract with an individual. No formal community programs outside of base/government-leased housing exist at Spangdahlem.
Schools
Spangdahlem and Bitburg's Elementary, Middle, and High School are part of the DODEA, Brussels District. These schools have been fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The school population consists primarily of dependents of American Military and DoD civilians. There are a few tuition paying pupils who enroll on a space available basis. Many students have a foreign born parent and are bilingual.
For more information please refer to the section "Public and DODDS Schools" under the Education category or visit their website http://www.eu.dodea.edu.
School Age Care
This program is for children from 6 to 12 years old, with either before school care, after school care or both available. Summer brings full day programs for the children where they are involved in many activities such as trips to visit castles, zoos, parks and swimming pools in the German community. When not taking trips programs that keep the kids busy include arts and crafts, reading and math centers, sports and fitness, and walking to nearby parks. There is also an outdoor basketball court and several baseball fields to allow the kids to exercise and enjoy the nice weather. The School Age Care Program is open Monday-Friday from 0630 to 1800. Hourly care is provided on a space available basis.
Religious Programs
The chapel offers a variety of programs for children and teens. These groups are assembled based on interest so sign up and create the interest! Base chapel programs include: Protestant Youth of The Chapel, Catholic Youth of The Chapel, Bible Study Groups/Religious Education, Sunday Schools/CCD, Young Life Groups, Teen Bible Study, Gospel Youth Choir, and AWANAS. For specific information on any of the programs listed, please call the Spangdahlem Chapel at DSN 452-6711.
Things to Do (Clubs and Social Life)
There are many organizations on base and in the community for children to get involved with. The AYA is the best and most centralized source for them to learn what is available. The Chapel, Services, Red Cross and their school are other sources to assist your kids in settling into their new home.
To get them excited to come to Spangdahlem, go to your Family Support Center and ask the Relocation folks to request a sponsor for your child/children or contact the Spangdahlem Youth Programs Flight directly at DSN 452-6238.
Things to Do (Recreation and Sports)
See the DoDEA Schools, Eifel Youth Programs, Information Tickets and Tours office (ITT), Community Activity Center, Private clubs and Organizations, and Recreational Opportunities Categories.
Special Events
The Eifel Youth Programs, Chapel, Information, Tours and Tickets office and schools all sponsor activities throughout the year. See Local Community Information for more about what's available for the entire family.
Youth Centers
Spangdahlem Youth Programs supports children and teens with a variety of activities, programs and sports. There are American Youth Activity centers (AYA's) at both Spangdahlem and the Bitburg Annex. They offer programs and services to children 5 years through 18 years of age to include a pre-teen, teen, and school age care programs. Instructional classes are also available for the kids including gymnastics, dance, and Tae Kwon Do.
Theater
There are movie theaters at both Spangdahlem and the Bitburg Annex with two different movies showing on Friday and Saturdays. If videos are your thing, there are four different video rental facilities on base and the Bitburg Annex.
Point of Contact
Child Development Center
Call 452-6697
011-49-06565-61-6697
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