That is why we are so excited to share the third edition of Key Data on Early Childhood Education and Care in Europe. Our big goal is to help build childcare and early education systems that are welcoming, affordable, and high-quality for everyone. Whether you are a policymaker, a researcher, or a parent, this report is packed with the insights and real-world examples you need to see what is working across Europe.
Here is a quick look at what you will find inside:
The big picture: The first half of the report connects the dots between how kids access these programs, how they are funded, who is teaching them, and how quality is measured. This year, we’ve added brand-new insights into inclusion, funding models, and teachers' working conditions and salaries. We have also updated the curriculum sections to tackle modern topics that matter to today's kids, like sustainability education, digital safety, and early foreign language learning.
A closer look by country: The second half takes you on a guided tour of 37 different European countries (including all 27 EU Member States, plus Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Türkiye). Each country has its own handy information sheet complete with easy-to-read structural diagrams.
Want a quick snapshot? Be sure to check out our system-level interactive visuals! They are a super simple way to explore how different countries are making the right to high-quality, affordable early education a reality for all children.
