About BES(t) 4 kids

Continuous development of a child is important, and the responsibility for this begins in childcare. Starting at the compulsory school age of 4, a continuous learning pathway also becomes important.

For some 4-year-old children, the transition from daycare to primary school is a significant one. Research is being conducted to determine whether this transition can be made easier for the child. Good agreements between childcare organizations and primary schools are essential for this. The Inspectorate of Education will oversee the existence of such agreements and ensure a smooth transition of children between both childcare organizations and schools.

Preschool education makes it possible to prevent or reduce developmental and educational disadvantages in children. Therefore, the public entities consider it desirable that every childcare organization works on preschool education.

Learning through play is important for the development of young children. In preschool education, activities are offered in a playful way to help children develop. There are also changing themes. If childcare and primary education align these themes, it also contributes to a smooth transition for children to primary school.

To offer responsible and high-quality childcare, it is essential that professionals are well-trained. It is also important that there is sufficient expertise within a childcare organization in the areas of preschool education and identifying developmental and learning disadvantages.

Therefore, a training plan has been developed to support local organizations in training staff. This will enable all organizations to meet the established requirements.

Good daycare and out-of-school care require solid governance and management of the organization. Directors and managers must be aware of their functions, roles, and responsibilities, and be capable of fulfilling them effectively. In consultation with the organizations, support is provided in this area.

Good terms of employment are important for improving the quality of childcare. With good terms of employment in the sector, working in childcare becomes more attractive, and childcare organizations can attract and retain well-trained staff.

Therefore, the BES(t) 4 Kids program aims to help childcare organizations structurally improve terms of employment. The goal is to establish a collective labor agreement: the CLA Childcare CN. This agreement can cover matters such as minimum wages, vacation (pay), and pensions on a collective basis, significantly increasing the sector’s attractiveness.

However, a CLA Childcare CN is not something that can be established overnight. Many parties are involved. For example, the wishes and needs of employers and employees on the three islands are first surveyed. Employers and employees in childcare also need to organize themselves, for example, in an employers’ association and a union. After that, many discussions between employers and employees are needed to agree on an initial collective labor agreement. BES(t) 4 Kids facilitates and encourages this process.