According to a representative survey conducted by the Hans Böckler Foundation, more than half of employed or job-seeking parents in Germany have experienced disruptions in childcare services. During the survey period in autumn 2025, 54% of respondents reported that they faced shortened care hours or last-minute closures of childcare facilities, affecting services such as daycare centers, family daycare, and all-day schooling. The implications of these disruptions are significant, particularly for parents trying to balance work and family responsibilities.

The survey highlights a remarkable disparity between regions, with parents in East Germany reporting a lesser incidence of issues compared to their West German counterparts. Specifically, 21% of parents in East Germany faced last-minute closures on at least one day during the survey period, whereas 39% in West Germany reported similar experiences. This indicates a regional variability in childcare availability, which can directly influence the work-life balance of parents depending on where they live.

Moreover, nearly a third of parents indicated that they had to reduce their working hours to accommodate these childcare gaps. The survey underscores the challenges faced especially by parents of young children under six years old, a demographic that significantly relies on continuous childcare. The findings not only point to the immediate impact on family life and employment but also raise questions about the broader implications for workforce participation and economic productivity in the longer term.