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B1 noun 10分で読める

Kleinkind

練習する例文メモとヒント Kleinkind 30秒で

解説 Kleinkind in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should recognize 'Kleinkind' as a combination of 'klein' (small) and 'Kind' (child). You mainly need to know that it refers to a very young child who can walk. You will see it in basic sentences about family and toys. Focus on the gender: 'das Kleinkind'. Even at this stage, knowing that 'das Kind' is neuter is a fundamental rule. You might use it to describe your family: 'Ich habe ein Kleinkind.' It is a useful word for basic descriptions of people and their ages. You should also learn the plural 'Kleinkinder' because you will see it on signs at playgrounds or in parks. At A1, don't worry too much about complex grammar; just remember the word and its basic meaning.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use 'Kleinkind' in more descriptive contexts. You might talk about what a toddler does: 'Das Kleinkind spielt mit dem Ball' or 'Das Kleinkind schläft viel.' You should also start noticing the dative case when using prepositions like 'mit'. For example, 'Ich gehe mit dem Kleinkind spazieren.' You will encounter the word in simple texts about daily routines, childcare, and shopping for clothes or food. You should be able to distinguish between a 'Baby' and a 'Kleinkind' based on the child's abilities. At this level, you are building the foundation for describing life stages and family dynamics in more detail.

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As a B1 learner, you should use 'Kleinkind' with grammatical precision, including all four cases (Nominative, Accusative, Dative, Genitive). You are expected to understand the developmental significance of the 'Kleinkindalter' (toddler age) and be able to discuss topics like 'Erziehung' (upbringing) or 'Kinderbetreuung' (childcare). You should know that a 'Kleinkind' is specifically a child between ages one and three or four. You will hear this word in professional settings, such as at a doctor's office or during a parent-teacher meeting at a 'Kita'. You should also be familiar with related terms like 'Trotzphase' (the defiance phase) and how they relate to the behavior of a Kleinkind. This level requires you to move beyond simple descriptions and start discussing the needs and development of young children.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'Kleinkind' in more abstract and formal discussions. You might read articles about 'frühkindliche Bildung' (early childhood education) or the impact of technology on 'Kleinkinder'. You should be able to use the word in complex sentence structures, including relative clauses and passive voice. For example: 'Kleinkinder, die zweisprachig aufwachsen, entwickeln oft besondere kognitive Fähigkeiten.' You should also understand the socio-political context of the word in Germany, such as the 'Rechtsanspruch auf einen Betreuungsplatz' for toddlers. Your vocabulary should include more specific synonyms and you should be able to explain the nuances between them, such as why a pediatrician might use 'Kleinkind' while a grandmother might say 'Knirps'.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of 'Kleinkind' should include its use in academic and specialized contexts. You might encounter the term in psychological studies regarding 'Bindungstheorie' (attachment theory) or 'Spracherwerb' (language acquisition) in toddlers. You should be able to discuss the nuances of child development with sophisticated vocabulary, using 'Kleinkind' as a precise categorical term. You will also recognize the word in literature, where it might be used to evoke specific imagery of innocence or primal discovery. Your command of the genitive case ('des Kleinkindes') and plural dative ('den Kleinkindern') should be flawless. You should also be aware of historical changes in the perception of the 'Kleinkind' in German society.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word 'Kleinkind' and its place in the German language. You can use it in highly formal speeches, legal documents, or philosophical treatises on the nature of childhood. You understand the subtle connotations it carries in different literary styles and can use it creatively or rhetorically. You are also familiar with the etymological roots and how the concept of the 'Kleinkind' has evolved through the centuries in German thought. You can engage in deep debates about 'Frühpädagogik' and the state's role in the lives of 'Kleinkinder' with the fluency and precision of a native speaker. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a tool for expressing complex ideas about human development and social structure.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

Kleinkind 30秒で

A 'Kleinkind' is a toddler aged 1 to 3 years.
The noun is neuter: 'das Kleinkind' (plural: 'die Kleinkinder').
It comes from 'klein' (small) and 'Kind' (child).
It is a standard term in German for early childhood development.

The German word Kleinkind is a compound noun formed from the adjective klein (small) and the noun Kind (child). In a developmental sense, it specifically refers to the stage of childhood that English speakers call the toddler years. This period typically begins when a child starts walking independently—usually around one year of age—and continues until they reach the age of three or four, at which point they are often referred to as a Kindergartenkind or Vorschulkind. Understanding the nuance of this word is essential for B1 learners because it bridges the gap between the dependency of an infant (Säugling or Baby) and the relative independence of a school-aged child.

Developmental Window: A Kleinkind is roughly between 12 months and 36 to 48 months old. This is the age of rapid motor skill development and language acquisition.

Das Kleinkind lernt gerade, mit einem Löffel zu essen.

In German society, the term is frequently used in medical, educational, and everyday contexts. If you are visiting a pediatrician, you might see signs for Kleinkind-Vorsorgeuntersuchungen (toddler check-ups). In a playground setting, a parent might warn another by saying, "Achtung, hier spielt ein Kleinkind," indicating that the child might not yet have the spatial awareness of older children. It is a neutral, descriptive term, devoid of the overly sentimental tones sometimes associated with words like Wonneproppen (chubby little baby) or the slightly more informal Knirps.

Grammatical Gender: Like the basic word Kind, Kleinkind is neuter: das Kleinkind. This remains true regardless of the child's actual biological sex.

Ein gesundes Kleinkind braucht viel Bewegung an der frischen Luft.

The term is also central to German social policy. For instance, the Rechtsanspruch auf einen Betreuungsplatz (legal right to a childcare spot) applies to children from their first birthday, which is exactly when they transition into being a Kleinkind. This stage is marked by the Autonomiephase, colloquially known as the Trotzphase (defiance phase or 'terrible twos'). During this time, the Kleinkind begins to develop a sense of self, often leading to the famous temper tantrums that parents and educators discuss using this specific vocabulary.

In der Trotzphase testet das Kleinkind seine Grenzen aus.

Social Context: In Germany, Kleinkinder often attend a Krippe (crèche) before moving to a Kindergarten at age three.

Die Spielgruppe ist speziell für Kleinkinder unter drei Jahren gedacht.

Jedes Kleinkind entwickelt sich in seinem eigenen Tempo.

Using Kleinkind correctly involves mastering its declension and understanding its role as a neuter noun. Because it is a compound noun, the gender is determined by the last element, which is Kind. Therefore, you will use the articles das (nominative/accusative), dem (dative), and des (genitive). When describing the actions of a toddler, the verbs used are often those of discovery, movement, and learning.

Nominative Case (Subject): The toddler is playing in the garden.
Das Kleinkind spielt im Garten.

Ein Kleinkind braucht viel Aufmerksamkeit.

When the Kleinkind is the direct object of a sentence (Accusative), the article remains das or ein. For example, if you are looking at a toddler, you would say, "Ich sehe das Kleinkind." In the dative case, which often follows prepositions like mit (with) or von (from), the article changes to dem or einem. "Ich spiele mit dem Kleinkind" (I am playing with the toddler). The genitive case, used to show possession, is des Kleinkindes or eines Kleinkindes, such as in the phrase "das Spielzeug des Kleinkindes" (the toddler's toy).

Dative Case (Indirect Object/Prepositions): She gives the toddler a piece of apple.
Sie gibt dem Kleinkind ein Stück Apfel.

Wir gehen mit dem Kleinkind spazieren.

Adjective ending agreement is another crucial aspect. Since Kleinkind is neuter, a preceding adjective in a sentence with a definite article will usually end in -e (nominative/accusative): "das kleine Kleinkind." In the dative, it ends in -en: "mit dem kleinen Kleinkind." If you use an indefinite article like ein, the nominative adjective ending is -es: "ein süßes Kleinkind." These rules are fundamental for B1 students to ensure their speech sounds natural and grammatically sound.

Das Kleinkind hat seine ersten Schritte gemacht.

Plural Usage: The toddlers are sleeping in the afternoon.
Die Kleinkinder schlafen am Nachmittag.

Viele Kleinkinder besuchen eine Kindertagesstätte.

Ein Kleinkind entdeckt die Welt mit allen Sinnen.

The word Kleinkind is ubiquitous in German daily life, especially within the spheres of family, education, and healthcare. If you are living in Germany and have children, or work with them, you will hear it daily. In a medical context, the Kinderarzt (pediatrician) will use it to distinguish the patient's developmental needs from those of a Säugling (infant). For example, dietary recommendations for a Kleinkind differ significantly from those for a baby who is still primarily breastfed or bottle-fed.

At the Pediatrician: "Ist das Kleinkind bereits geimpft?" (Has the toddler already been vaccinated?)

Die Ernährung eines Kleinkindes sollte abwechslungsreich sein.

In the educational system, the term appears in discussions regarding Frühpädagogik (early childhood pedagogy). When parents apply for a spot in a Kita (daycare center), they are often looking specifically for the Kleinkindgruppe. You will also see the word on product packaging in supermarkets. Baby food aisles are divided into sections for infants and Kleinkindnahrung (toddler food), which often contains more texture and variety. Similarly, clothing stores will have a section labeled Kleinkindmode or Kleinkinderbekleidung, typically covering sizes 80 to 104.

In the Supermarket: "Diese Kekse sind für Kleinkinder ab dem 12. Monat geeignet." (These cookies are suitable for toddlers from 12 months.)

Im Supermarkt gibt es ein großes Regal mit Kleinkindnahrung.

Public announcements and safety warnings also use the term. On a train, you might hear, "Wir bitten Reisende mit Kleinkindern, das spezielle Abteil zu nutzen." In a swimming pool, signs might indicate the Kleinkindbecken (toddler pool), which is shallow and safe for children who are not yet swimmers. In literature and media, the Kleinkind is often depicted as a symbol of curiosity and the beginning of personality, appearing in parenting magazines like Eltern or in news segments about childcare policy.

Das Kleinkindbecken ist heute wegen Reinigung geschlossen.

In Public Life: "Bitte achten Sie auf Kleinkinder beim Ein- und Aussteigen." (Please watch out for toddlers when boarding and alighting.)

Im Zug gibt es oft ein eigenes Abteil für Familien mit Kleinkindern.

Das Kleinkindalter ist eine prägende Zeit für die Entwicklung.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using the word Kleinkind is applying the wrong grammatical gender. Because a child can be a boy or a girl, learners often want to use der or die. However, in German, the noun Kind (and thus Kleinkind) is grammatically neuter. You must say das Kleinkind, even if you are talking about a specific little girl. If you want to specify the gender, you would use pronouns later in the sentence, or use words like Mädchen (girl) or Junge (boy), though Mädchen is also neuter!

Gender Error: Incorrect: Der Kleinkind spielt.
Correct: Das Kleinkind spielt.

Man sollte das Kleinkind nicht unbeaufsichtigt lassen.

Another common error is confusing the age ranges. A Säugling (infant/suckling) is a baby who is still being nursed, usually under one year old. A Kleinkind is a toddler. Using Baby is acceptable and very common in modern German, but Kleinkind is more precise once the child starts walking. Furthermore, learners often struggle with the plural dative. They might say "mit den Kleinkinder" instead of the correct "mit den Kleinkindern." Adding that final '-n' in the dative plural is a classic B1 hurdle.

Plural Dative Error: Incorrect: Ich lese den Kleinkinder vor.
Correct: Ich lese den Kleinkindern vor.

Der Spielplatz ist ideal für Kleinkinder geeignet.

Misusing the genitive is also a pitfall. While the genitive is less common in spoken German (often replaced by von + dative), in writing, you must use des Kleinkindes. A common mistake is forgetting the '-es' ending on the noun itself. For example, "die Schuhe des Kleinkind" is incorrect; it must be "die Schuhe des Kleinkindes." Finally, avoid over-using the word Baby for children who are clearly walking and talking; it can sound slightly patronizing or imprecise in a professional or educational context.

Das Lachen eines Kleinkindes ist ansteckend.

Genitive Error: Incorrect: Die Mutter des Kleinkind.
Correct: Die Mutter des Kleinkindes.

Wir beobachten die Entwicklung des Kleinkindes sehr genau.

Ein Kleinkind braucht einen festen Schlafrhythmus.

While Kleinkind is the standard term, German offers several synonyms and related words that convey different shades of meaning or registers. Choosing the right one depends on whether you want to be scientific, affectionate, or informal. Understanding these alternatives will significantly enrich your B1 vocabulary and help you understand native speakers in various social settings.

Kleinkind vs. Säugling: A Säugling is an infant (literally "suckling"). The transition to Kleinkind happens when the child starts eating solid food and walking.

Vom Säugling zum Kleinkind ist es ein großer Schritt.

In informal speech, you might hear Knirps or Steppke. These are affectionate ways to refer to a small boy, similar to "little rascal" or "little guy" in English. Wonneproppen is a delightful word used for a healthy, chubby, and happy toddler or baby. If a child is particularly small but acts like they are much older or bigger, Germans might use the humorous term Dreikäsehoch (literally "three cheeses high"), which is a charming way to describe a confident toddler.

Informal Terms: Knirps: A little fellow.
Dreikäsehoch: A pint-sized person who thinks they're big.

Was für ein süßer Knirps!

From a pedagogical or medical perspective, Kleinkind is often contrasted with Schulkind (school child) or Jugendlicher (youth/teenager). There is also the term Vorschulkind, which specifically refers to a child in the year or two before they start primary school (usually ages 5-6). Using Kleinkind correctly helps you navigate these age-based categories in German bureaucracy and social life.

Das Vorschulkind freut sich schon auf die Schule.

Comparison Table: Baby: 0-1 year.
Kleinkind: 1-3/4 years.
Kind: 0-14 years (general).

Der Dreikäsehoch will schon alles alleine machen.

Ein Wonneproppen ist ein besonders propperes Kind.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

In Old High German, 'kleini' actually meant 'shining' or 'neat/elegant' before it shifted to meaning 'small'.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈklaɪ̯nˌkɪnt/

US /ˈklaɪnˌkɪnt/

Primary stress on the first syllable 'Klein'.

韻が合う語

Findkind Wind blind geschwind lind gelind rind sind

よくある間違い

Pronouncing the final 'd' as a voiced 'd' instead of 't'.
Merging the 'n' and 'k' too much; keep them distinct.
Using an English 'r' if adding endings like 'Kleinkinder'.
Mispronouncing the 'ei' as 'ee'.
Forgetting the glottal stop between 'Klein' and 'kind' in some dialects.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize because of the compound structure of 'klein' and 'Kind'.

ライティング 4/5

Requires correct declension (des Kleinkindes, den Kleinkindern).

スピーキング 3/5

Need to remember the neuter gender 'das' consistently.

リスニング 2/5

Distinct pronunciation makes it easy to hear in context.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

klein Kind Baby spielen laufen

次に学ぶ

Erziehung Kindergarten Schule Jugend Wachstum

上級

frühkindlich Entwicklungspsychologie Sorgerecht Pädagogik sozialisieren

知っておくべき文法

Neuter Noun Declension

das Kind, des Kindes, dem Kind, das Kind

Compound Noun Gender

klein + Kind = das Kleinkind (gender from the last word)

Plural '-er' ending

Kind -> Kinder, Kleinkind -> Kleinkinder

Dative Plural '-n'

den Kleinkindern

Adjective Endings after 'das'

das kleine Kleinkind

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レベル別の例文

Das Kleinkind ist süß.

The toddler is cute.

Neuter noun 'das'.

Ich habe ein Kleinkind.

I have a toddler.

Accusative case 'ein'.

Wo ist das Kleinkind?

Where is the toddler?

Nominative subject.

Das Kleinkind spielt.

The toddler is playing.

Simple present tense.

Ein Kleinkind lacht.

A toddler is laughing.

Indefinite article.

Hier sind zwei Kleinkinder.

Here are two toddlers.

Plural form.

Das Kleinkind schläft.

The toddler is sleeping.

Verb 'schlafen'.

Das ist mein Kleinkind.

That is my toddler.

Possessive pronoun 'mein'.

Das Kleinkind läuft im Park.

The toddler is running in the park.

Preposition 'im' (in dem).

Ich gebe dem Kleinkind einen Apfel.

I give the toddler an apple.

Dative case 'dem'.

Das Kleinkind lernt sprechen.

The toddler is learning to speak.

Infinitive construction.

Die Kleinkinder essen Suppe.

The toddlers are eating soup.

Plural subject.

Das Kleinkind hat ein neues Spielzeug.

The toddler has a new toy.

Perfect tense (has).

Wir sehen ein kleines Kleinkind.

We see a little toddler.

Adjective ending '-es'.

Das Kleinkind spielt mit dem Hund.

The toddler is playing with the dog.

Dative after 'mit'.

Das Kleinkind trägt eine blaue Jacke.

The toddler is wearing a blue jacket.

Accusative object.

Das Kleinkind zeigt erste Anzeichen von Selbstständigkeit.

The toddler is showing first signs of independence.

Abstract noun 'Selbstständigkeit'.

In der Kita gibt es eine Gruppe für Kleinkinder.

In the daycare, there is a group for toddlers.

Prepositional phrase.

Das Kleinkind braucht einen festen Tagesablauf.

The toddler needs a fixed daily routine.

Accusative masculine 'einen'.

Wir beobachten das Verhalten des Kleinkindes.

We are observing the toddler's behavior.

Genitive case '-es'.

Ein Kleinkind entdeckt die Welt durch Ausprobieren.

A toddler discovers the world through trial and error.

Gerund-like 'Ausprobieren'.

Man muss dem Kleinkind klare Grenzen setzen.

One must set clear boundaries for the toddler.

Dative object 'dem'.

Das Kleinkind hat Angst vor dem Gewitter.

The toddler is afraid of the thunderstorm.

Preposition 'vor' + dative.

Viele Kleinkinder lieben es, im Sand zu spielen.

Many toddlers love playing in the sand.

Infinitive with 'zu'.

Die motorische Entwicklung eines Kleinkindes ist faszinierend.

The motor development of a toddler is fascinating.

Genitive attribute.

Kleinkinder benötigen eine nährstoffreiche Ernährung.

Toddlers require a nutrient-rich diet.

Formal verb 'benötigen'.

Das Kleinkind reagiert empfindlich auf laute Geräusche.

The toddler reacts sensitively to loud noises.

Adverbial usage.

Die Trotzphase ist ein wichtiger Teil der Entwicklung eines Kleinkindes.

The defiance phase is an important part of a toddler's development.

Genitive 'eines Kleinkindes'.

Es ist schwierig, Beruf und die Betreuung eines Kleinkindes zu vereinbaren.

It is difficult to reconcile a career and caring for a toddler.

Infinitive construction.

Das Kleinkind beginnt, soziale Kontakte zu knüpfen.

The toddler is beginning to establish social contacts.

Collocation 'Kontakte knüpfen'.

Sicherheit im Haushalt ist für Kleinkinder lebenswichtig.

Household safety is vital for toddlers.

Adjective 'lebenswichtig'.

Das Kleinkind ahmt die Handlungen der Erwachsenen nach.

The toddler imitates the actions of adults.

Separable verb 'nachahmen'.

Die kognitive Plastizität im Kleinkindalter ist enorm.

Cognitive plasticity in the toddler years is enormous.

Compound 'Kleinkindalter'.

Pädagogen betonen die Bedeutung des freien Spiels für das Kleinkind.

Educators emphasize the importance of free play for the toddler.

Formal register.

Das Kleinkind befindet sich in einer Phase rasanter Sprachentwicklung.

The toddler is in a phase of rapid language development.

Reflexive 'befindet sich'.

Emotionale Zuwendung ist für das Kleinkind essenziell.

Emotional attention is essential for the toddler.

Subjective 'Zuwendung'.

Die Bindung zwischen Eltern und Kleinkind prägt das spätere Leben.

The bond between parents and toddler shapes later life.

Verb 'prägen'.

Ein Kleinkind verarbeitet Erlebtes oft im Schlaf.

A toddler often processes experiences during sleep.

Substantivized adjective 'Erlebtes'.

Die Frustrationstoleranz eines Kleinkindes ist meist noch gering.

A toddler's frustration tolerance is usually still low.

Technical term 'Frustrationstoleranz'.

Förderprogramme für Kleinkinder aus bildungsfernen Schichten sind notwendig.

Support programs for toddlers from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds are necessary.

Complex noun phrase.

Die Phänomenologie des Kleinkindes offenbart eine Welt voller Wunder.

The phenomenology of the toddler reveals a world full of wonders.

Academic register.

In der Literatur wird das Kleinkind oft als Symbol der Unschuld instrumentalisiert.

In literature, the toddler is often instrumentalized as a symbol of innocence.

Passive voice.

Die rechtliche Stellung des Kleinkindes hat sich historisch stark gewandelt.

The legal status of the toddler has changed significantly throughout history.

Historical context.

Das Kleinkind agiert jenseits von gesellschaftlichen Konventionen.

The toddler acts beyond social conventions.

Preposition 'jenseits'.

Die neurobiologische Forschung liefert tiefe Einblicke in die Psyche des Kleinkindes.

Neurobiological research provides deep insights into the toddler's psyche.

Scientific terminology.

Das Kleinkind als Subjekt seiner eigenen Entwicklung wahrzunehmen, ist ein moderner Ansatz.

Perceiving the toddler as the subject of their own development is a modern approach.

Infinitive as subject.

Die Interaktion zwischen Kleinkind und Umwelt ist von reziproker Natur.

The interaction between toddler and environment is of a reciprocal nature.

Adjective 'reziprok'.

Man darf die kognitiven Kapazitäten eines Kleinkindes keinesfalls unterschätzen.

One must by no means underestimate the cognitive capacities of a toddler.

Modal verb with negation.

よく使う組み合わせ

aufgewecktes Kleinkind

Kleinkind-Ernährung

im Kleinkindalter

für Kleinkinder geeignet

Kleinkinder betreuen

ein Kleinkind erziehen

Kleinkind-Abteil

gesundes Kleinkind

Kleinkind-Pädagogik

trotziges Kleinkind

よく使うフレーズ

Vom Säugling zum Kleinkind

— Describes the transition from being a baby to a toddler.

Das Buch beschreibt den Weg vom Säugling zum Kleinkind.

Kleinkinder unter drei Jahren

— A common age limit for daycare or events.

Der Eintritt ist für Kleinkinder unter drei Jahren frei.

Ein Herz für Kleinkinder

— Having a soft spot or caring deeply for young children.

Sie hat wirklich ein Herz für Kleinkinder.

Typisch für ein Kleinkind

— Something characteristic of that age.

Diese Neugier ist ganz typisch für ein Kleinkind.

Kleinkinder an die Macht

— A playful phrase, also a famous song title by Herbert Grönemeyer.

In diesem Haus gilt: Kleinkinder an die Macht!

Erziehung von Kleinkindern

— The process of raising toddlers.

Die Erziehung von Kleinkindern erfordert viel Geduld.

Sicherheit für Kleinkinder

— Focusing on making environments safe for toddlers.

Wir müssen die Sicherheit für Kleinkinder im Haus verbessern.

Spiele für Kleinkinder

— Activities specifically designed for toddlers.

Suchen Sie pädagogische Spiele für Kleinkinder?

Kleinkinder und Babys

— Grouping the two youngest age categories together.

Wir bieten Kurse für Kleinkinder und Babys an.

Das Lachen eines Kleinkindes

— A phrase often used to describe pure joy.

Nichts ist schöner als das Lachen eines Kleinkindes.

よく混同される語

Kleinkind vs Baby

A baby is an infant; a Kleinkind is a toddler who can walk.

Kleinkind vs Enkelkind

Enkelkind means grandchild, which is a relationship, not an age stage.

Kleinkind vs Kleinkindalter

This refers to the age period itself, not the child.

慣用句と表現

"Noch in den Kinderschuhen stecken"

— To be in the early stages of development (not just for children).

Das Projekt steckt noch in den Kinderschuhen.

Common

"Das Kind beim Namen nennen"

— To speak plainly and directly about a problem.

Wir müssen das Kind beim Namen nennen: Wir haben kein Geld.

Common

"Das Kind mit dem Bade ausschütten"

— To discard something valuable along with something unwanted.

Wir sollten nicht das Kind mit dem Bade ausschütten.

Common

"Ein Kindskopf sein"

— To be childish or immature as an adult.

Mein Onkel ist ein richtiger Kindskopf.

Informal

"Sich wie ein kleines Kind benehmen"

— To behave immaturely.

Hör auf, dich wie ein kleines Kind zu benehmen!

Informal

"Vom Kindesbeinen an"

— Since early childhood.

Er spielt schon von Kindesbeinen an Klavier.

Common

"Ein gebranntes Kind scheut das Feuer"

— Once bitten, twice shy.

Sie will nicht wieder investieren; ein gebranntes Kind scheut das Feuer.

Proverb

"Kinder und Narren sagen die Wahrheit"

— Children and fools tell the truth.

Tja, Kinder und Narren sagen die Wahrheit.

Proverb

"Kein Kinderspiel sein"

— To be not easy; to be a difficult task.

Die Prüfung war kein Kinderspiel.

Common

"Wir werden das Kind schon schaukeln"

— We will manage the situation successfully.

Keine Sorge, wir werden das Kind schon schaukeln.

Informal

間違えやすい

Kleinkind vs Säugling

Both are very young children.

A Säugling is specifically a nursing infant (under 1 year).

Ein Säugling braucht Muttermilch, ein Kleinkind isst Brot.

Kleinkind vs Vorschulkind

Both are young children.

A Vorschulkind is older (5-6 years) and preparing for school.

Das Vorschulkind lernt schon Buchstaben.

Kleinkind vs Kindchen

It sounds similar.

Kindchen is a diminutive, often used as an affectionate term for anyone.

Komm her, mein liebes Kindchen.

Kleinkind vs Schulkind

Both contain 'kind'.

A Schulkind is at least 6 years old and attends school.

Das Schulkind hat einen schweren Rucksack.

Kleinkind vs Waisenkind

Both contain 'kind'.

A Waisenkind is an orphan, regardless of age.

Das Waisenkind lebt im Heim.

文型パターン

Das ist ein [Adjektiv] Kleinkind.

Das ist ein süßes Kleinkind.

Das Kleinkind [Verb] mit [Dativ-Objekt].

Das Kleinkind spielt mit dem Ball.

Ich helfe dem Kleinkind beim [Substantiviertes Verb].

Ich helfe dem Kleinkind beim Essen.

Wegen [Genitiv] schläft das Kleinkind nicht.

Wegen des Lärms schläft das Kleinkind nicht.

Es ist wichtig, dass Kleinkinder [Nebensatz].

Es ist wichtig, dass Kleinkinder viel spielen.

Je älter das Kleinkind wird, desto [Komparativ].

Je älter das Kleinkind wird, desto neugieriger ist es.

Die [Nomen] des Kleinkindes deutet auf [Akkusativ] hin.

Die Reaktion des Kleinkindes deutet auf Angst hin.

Ungeachtet [Genitiv] entwickelte sich das Kleinkind prächtig.

Ungeachtet der Umstände entwickelte sich das Kleinkind prächtig.

語族

名詞

Kind

Kindheit

Kindchen

Kindlein

Kindergarten

Kindesalter

動詞

kindeln

verkindlichen

形容詞

kleinkindhaft

kindlich

kindisch

kinderreich

kinderlos

使い方

frequency

Very common in daily life and media.

よくある間違い

Die Kleinkind ist da. → Das Kleinkind ist da.
The noun 'Kind' is neuter, so its compounds are also neuter.
Ich spiele mit die Kleinkinder. → Ich spiele mit den Kleinkindern.
After 'mit', you need the dative plural, which is 'den ...-ern'.
Ein Baby läuft im Park. → Ein Kleinkind läuft im Park.
Once a child walks, 'Kleinkind' is more accurate than 'Baby'.
Das Spielzeug des Kleinkind. → Das Spielzeug des Kleinkindes.
The genitive singular of neuter nouns requires an '-es' or '-s' ending.
Der Kleinkind ist süß. → Das Kleinkind ist süß.
Gender confusion is common; remember 'das' is mandatory.

ヒント

Neuter Article

Always use 'das' or 'ein'. Never use 'der' or 'die' for the singular noun, even if the child is a boy or girl.

Compound Power

Recognize that 'Klein-' + 'Kind' is a logical way to say toddler. This pattern helps you learn other words like 'Kleinstadt' (small town).

Kita Culture

If you are in Germany, learn the word 'Kita'. It's where most 'Kleinkinder' spend their day.

Final D

Remember the rule of Auslautverhärtung: a 'd' at the end of a word sounds like a 't'.

Precision

Use 'Kleinkind' in official forms or when talking to doctors; it sounds more professional than 'Baby'.

Dative Plural

Don't forget the extra 'n' in 'den Kleinkindern'. This is a very common test question.

Household Safety

When looking for child-proofing items, search for 'Kleinkindsicherung'.

Playdates

A 'Spielgruppe' is a common social activity for 'Kleinkinder' and their parents.

Word Roots

'Kind' is related to the English word 'kin'. It helps to remember that a child is part of the family kin.

Observation

Watch German parenting vlogs or read blogs to see 'Kleinkind' used in natural contexts.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a 'Klein' (small) 'Kind' (child). If you know 'Klein' from 'Klein-bottle' or 'Calvin Klein' and 'Kind' from 'Kindergarten', you've got it!

視覚的連想

Imagine a tiny child ('Klein') trying to reach a 'Kind'-er surprise egg on a high shelf.

Word Web

Kind Spielen Kita Laufen Lernen Spielzeug Eltern Wachstum

チャレンジ

Try to describe three things a Kleinkind does daily using the dative case (e.g., 'mit dem Kleinkind spielen').

語源

A compound of Middle High German 'kleine' (small, delicate) and 'kint' (child, offspring).

元の意味： A small offspring or a young child.

Germanic (West Germanic).

文化的な背景

Always use 'das' regardless of the child's gender; using 'der' for a boy or 'die' for a girl is a grammatical error, not a sign of respect.

The term 'toddler' is more common in English, whereas 'Kleinkind' is used in both casual and official German contexts.

Herbert Grönemeyer's song 'Kinder an die Macht' The Struwwelpeter stories (historical context of childhood) The 'Sendung mit der Maus' (popular show for young children)

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

At the Playground

Vorsicht, ein Kleinkind!
Darf mein Kleinkind mitspielen?
Wo ist die Schaukel für Kleinkinder?
Das Kleinkind ist hingefallen.

At the Doctor

Wie geht es dem Kleinkind?
Braucht das Kleinkind Vitamine?
Das Kleinkind hat Fieber.
Wie schwer ist das Kleinkind?

In the Supermarket

Haben Sie Kleinkindnahrung?
Wo finde ich Kleinkindschuhe?
Ist das für Kleinkinder sicher?
Gibt es einen Kleinkindsitz im Wagen?

At Daycare (Kita)

Wie war das Kleinkind heute?
Hat das Kleinkind geschlafen?
Die Kleinkindgruppe geht spazieren.
Wir basteln mit den Kleinkindern.

On the Train

Gibt es ein Kleinkindabteil?
Das Kleinkind braucht ein Ticket.
Wo kann ich das Kleinkind wickeln?
Ist hier Platz für ein Kleinkind?

会話のきっかけ

"Wie alt ist dein Kleinkind jetzt?"

"Was spielt dein Kleinkind am liebsten?"

"Ist das Kleinkind schon im Kindergarten oder noch in der Krippe?"

"Hat dein Kleinkind heute schon Mittagsschlaf gemacht?"

"Was ist das Lieblingsessen deines Kleinkindes?"

日記のテーマ

Beschreibe einen typischen Tag mit einem Kleinkind.

Was sind die größten Herausforderungen bei der Erziehung eines Kleinkindes?

Erinnere dich an deine Zeit als Kleinkind. Was hast du gerne gemacht?

Warum ist das Kleinkindalter so wichtig für die spätere Entwicklung?

Vergleiche das Leben eines Kleinkindes heute mit dem vor 50 Jahren.

よくある質問

10 問

In Germany, a Kleinkind is typically between 1 and 3 or 4 years old. It starts when the child can walk and ends when they enter the older group of Kindergarten.

It is neuter: das Kleinkind. German nouns ending in 'Kind' are always neuter, regardless of the child's sex.

The plural is 'die Kleinkinder'. In the dative case, it becomes 'den Kleinkindern'.

Usually, a 5-year-old is called a 'Vorschulkind' or just 'Kind'. 'Kleinkind' is generally reserved for those under 4.

The 'Trotzphase' is the developmental stage of a Kleinkind where they begin to say 'no' and have temper tantrums to assert their independence.

Yes, 'Baby' is very common, but it usually refers to infants who cannot walk yet. Once they walk, 'Kleinkind' is more accurate.

It is a special compartment on German trains (ICE/IC) designed for families with toddlers, featuring more space and sometimes toys.

It is 'des Kleinkindes' or 'des Kleinkinds'. The version with '-es' is more traditional and formal.

No, you would just say 'das Kleinkind' or 'das kleine Mädchen'.

It is the adjective form related to early childhood, often used in 'frühkindliche Erziehung' (early childhood education).

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