The German government will support childcare in Germany with four billion euros for the years 2025 and 2026. This was decided by the cabinet with the third Childcare Quality Act, which is due to come into force on 1 January 2025. The law defines seven fields of action into which the money is to flow. These include the recruitment of specialist staff, needs-based provision, a good childcare ratio and the promotion of language development and health. However, the money must no longer be used to further reduce parental contributions. It should also no longer be used to improve the design of the premises. Under the previous laws, these were two areas in which federal funds could still be invested. However, the new law provides for a transitional period until the end of 2025 so that childcare centres can adapt.

Contrary to the coalition agreement, the law does not contain any nationwide standards for childcare in Germany. However, the aim is to harmonise the quality of daycare centres and thus ensure equal opportunities for all children.

Your contacts for questions relating to childcare and school law in our practice are the lawyers Dr Beate Schulte zu Sodingen, Franziska Wilke and Charlotte Blech.