In a recent meeting of the Reykjavik City Council, significant changes were introduced to the city’s preschool policies aimed at easing the financial burden on single parents. Beginning September, single parents earning less than 8 million ISK annually will receive a substantial discount of 75% on preschool fees, effectively allowing them to access up to 36 hours of care without incurring costs. The initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage parents to register their children's actual attendance hours, thereby improving city services and resource management.

The new fee structure offers a sliding scale of discounts based on income levels. Single parents with annual earnings between 8-13 million ISK will enjoy a 50% reduction, while those earning more than 13 million will receive a 40% discount. For cohabiting couples, the thresholds are slightly different, with those earning under 11 million ISK receiving 40% off, but the percentage decreases for higher income brackets. This proposed structure not only aims to support low-income families but also encourages anyone in need to utilize essential preschool services more efficiently.

Overall, these changes reflect Reykjavik's commitment to support single parents and low-income families while promoting a system that motivates parents to take an active role in managing their children’s preschool hours. The city's initiative is expected to foster community engagement and enhance the wellbeing of families in Reykjavik, allowing children to benefit from preschool education without the financial strain for their caregivers.