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Almost 500,000 places for all-day care still missing by 2026

Almost 500,000 places for all-day care still missing by 2026

,   and  ASMedia
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Almost 500,000 places for all-day care still missing by 2026
Almost 500,000 places for all-day care still missing by 2026

Missing Half a Million All-Day Care Places in Germany by 2026

Germany's demand for all-day care places for primary school children is skyrocketing, and the current supply falls short by almost 500,000 spots. This staggering figure is revealed in the first report on the expansion of all-day care, approved by the cabinet.

As of now, approximately 1.7 million primary school children attend all-day schools or facilities like after-school care centers. This figure represents 55% of the total population. By the 2026/2027 school year, the government aims to grant all primary school pupils a legal entitlement to all-day care, necessitating the creation of 470,000 additional places.

The All-Day Support Act requires an annual update on the expansion status, with the first such report unveiled this year. Federal Minister Lisa Paus (Greens) emphasized the government's commitment to collaborating with the federal states and local authorities to meet this challenge, while acknowledging the need for skilled workers.

The Greens Minister further outlined that all-day care offers "opportunities for all schoolchildren to begin their lives well and contribute fairly, regardless of their background or income." It also facilitates better work-life balance for parents.

Meeting the demand for 470,000 additional all-day care places for primary school children calls for concerted efforts. Potential strategies include:

  1. Increased Funding: Allocate substantial resources to build and upgrade childcare facilities.
  2. Partnerships: Collaborate with private entities to fund and manage new facilities, ensuring public oversight and quality standards.
  3. Streamlined Regulations: Simplify and expedite the regulatory process for setting up new childcare centers.
  4. Workforce Development: Invest in training programs and better working conditions for childcare professionals.
  5. Community Engagement: Encourage local communities to plan and implement new facilities, addressing their unique needs.
  6. Innovative Solutions: Examine modular or prefabricated facilities for swift and adaptable expansion.
  7. Integration with Education: Ensure seamless transitions between pre-school and primary school through collaborations with schools and educational services.

Employing these strategies can help Germany tackle the shortage of all-day care places for primary school children effectively.

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