Addressing the Skilled Worker Shortage in Early Childhood Education

In Bergheim, the daycare center WeltKulturKinder is navigating the challenges of a skilled worker shortage despite being well-staffed. Mayor Winfried Kösters emphasizes the importance of early childhood education for economic growth.

However, director Petra Winkel highlights the generational transition as a significant issue that breeds frustration. The sponsoring organization, Diakonie Michaelshoven, faces hurdles due to the Child Education Act, which complicates the hiring of untrained personnel.

Meanwhile, the Kinderhaus in Viersen grapples with funding challenges as regulations require qualified staff, yet costs have not been reimbursed since 2021. In Wermelskirchen, two daycare expansions are on hold, with the city planning to invest significantly in 2025/2026.

This reflects a broader concern, as a recent national summit highlighted the urgent need for immigration to fill countless job vacancies in Germany's workforce.