As Germany approaches the implementation of a legal entitlement to all-day care for elementary school students, significant gaps remain in available spots, particularly in West Germany. A study by the Institute of the German Economy (IW) estimates that by 2029, at least 149,700 additional after-school care places need to be established, with the most significant shortages noted in North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria. These estimates are based on parental care requests anticipated for 2024.

Furthermore, the IW's analysis suggests that if a broader assumption is made that three out of four children will desire care services for homework, play, or sports in the afternoon, the required number of spots increases drastically to 570,900. Bavaria is highlighted as particularly concerning, with an all-day care rate for elementary school children projected to be only 34% in 2024. This suggests a substantial mismatch between the needs of parents and the current offerings of all-day care.

The article advises parents to take action quickly to secure an all-day care spot for their children ahead of next year. As the legal entitlement takes effect, securing a place may become increasingly competitive, and parents are urged to be vigilant in managing their children's care arrangements. This situation emphasizes the ongoing pressures on the education and childcare systems in Germany, particularly in light of changing demographics and parental expectations for comprehensive educational and childcare support.