Once called a “sewing school,” this place has evolved into a haven for families. We are standing before the Familienbildungsstätte / Lübecker Mütterschule. It is a cornerstone of Lübeck’s community. Since its founding, it has adapted to meet the changing needs of families.
In 1952, a group of determined women saw a need. The Frauenarbeitskreis, along with the Selbsthilfeausschuss and the Gesundheitsbehörde, established the Lübecker Mütterschule. Their goal was simple. They wanted to prepare young women for marriage and motherhood. Seventy-two volunteers built the Mütterschule. The demand quickly outgrew their capacity.
By 1955, the Gemeinnützige took over the sponsorship. The school moved to Dr. Julius-Leber-Straße 49. But even those rooms became too small by 1958.
Then, in 1959, a Lübeck merchant named Adolfo Christern made a generous donation. This allowed the Mütterschule to move to its current location. It is in the Jürgen-Wullenwever-Straße 1. The building was renovated with help from various organizations. These included the state, the city, and the Possehl-Stiftung.
Over time, the Mütterschule grew. It became more than just a place for sewing lessons. It transformed into an institution for adult education. It offered resources for families.
In 1970, the name changed. The Mütterschule became the Familienbildungsstätte. The original name remained as an addition. In the late 1970s, expansions accommodated the growing needs of the Mütterschule FBS.
By 1986, the focus shifted. The goal was to involve men and fathers in the courses. The Mütterschule name took a back seat. Until 2020, it was known as FBS Lübecker Mütterschule. In that year, leadership changed. Frau Bohn took over from Frau Mardfeld. She had been the director for 34 years. The name changed again to Familienbildungsstätte der Gemeinnützigen. Renovations during the Corona period prepared the Familienbildungsstätte for the future.
Today, the FBS is one of the largest family education centers in Schleswig-Holstein. It serves as a meeting place for generations of Lübeck residents. Expectant parents, families, and seniors all find something here. Many senior women first came here as young mothers. They participated in Mütterschule programs. They have remained connected to this place. Adults now enjoy exercise or creative classes. They once played or exercised here as children with their mothers.
The Familienbildungsstätte offers a wide range of activities. These cater to all age groups. There are events for new and expecting parents. These focus on the first three years of a child’s life. PEKiP and DELFI® courses are popular. There are also exercise programs for parents and children. Babymassage and early music education are available. Info evenings and workshops cover topics related to parenthood.
For families, there are craft activities for children and adults. Creative dance, playgroups, yoga, and relaxation courses are offered. There are parent evenings on parenting topics and counseling services.
Adults can find relaxation and exercise classes. There are programs for the 60-plus generation. Seminars prepare people for retirement. Sewing and cooking classes are also available.
New additions include cafes for different groups. The Still-Café, the wellcome-Café, and the Café 60plus offer community spaces.
The Familienbildungsstätte stands as a testament to Lübeck’s commitment to families. Its long history reflects a dedication to education, support, and community.