Kersti Kaljulaid has highlighted the need for flexibility in Estonia's childcare system to better support parents, especially those who work varying hours. This comes amid ongoing discussions about family policies and birth rates in the country, emphasizing the need for societal understanding to ensure that parents of small children can participate equally in the workforce. Childcare providers agree with this sentiment, pointing out, however, that current hours are already too long for staff.

In discussions surrounding Estonia's family policy and fertility rates, Kaljulaid's remarks stress that the current system does not adequately account for the diverse working hours of parents. There is a consensus that enhancing flexibility would afford greater opportunities for parents, particularly mothers, to balance work and childcare responsibilities. This flexibility could lead to improved participation in the labor market and consequently, positively affect the country's demographic challenges.

Childcare providers are on board with Kaljulaid's call for a flexible system but voice concerns about the existing demands on their staff. They argue that adjusting schedules could lead to longer workdays for educators, which are already perceived as extensive. As the conversation about family and work-life balance continues, finding a compromise that supports both parents and childcare professionals will be crucial for developing a more effective and equitable system in Estonia.