Education plan and financial worries - the situation in Saxony's daycare centers

What are the consequences?

The falling number of children has already led to the first daycare center closures: compared to 2024, the number of facilities in the state fell by 15 and still amounted to 3,050 in March 2025. Restricted opening hours due to reduced staff could also be a consequence.

Last week, the GEW trade union, the Paritätische Wohlfahrtsverband and the Saxon Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK) warned of the loss of further childcare services. There could be gaps in provision in rural areas in particular, as the nearest daycare center is often miles away, said Michael Richter, state director of the Paritätische Wohlfahrtsverband.

In addition, jobs would be lost if childcare facilities were closed or opening hours reduced. According to the State Statistical Office, there were around 830 fewer nursery teachers in Saxony in March 2025. In addition, many professionals are being forced to switch to part-time work, according to GEW.

Why do falling child numbers lead to financial problems?

The state's share of funding is linked to the number of children in care. However, this per capita flat rate does not take into account the fixed costs, which exist regardless of the group size. For example, heating costs remain constant, even if a daycare center cares for fewer children.

Numerous voices are therefore calling for an adjustment to the funding model that takes more account of fixed costs. In order to ensure that children and parents can continue to travel short distances, the daycare network should be planned in such a way as to ensure that care is available throughout the area.

How are daycare centers in Saxony currently financed?

The costs for daycare centers are covered by a three-part financing model. The facilities receive a state subsidy per child and year from the Free State, which currently stands at 3,570 euros. Additional funding is available for educational activities for integration and Sorbian daycare centers.

Parents participate in the funding via a contribution that varies from region to region. The amount is determined by the municipalities and should not exceed 23% of staff and material costs for a nursery place and 30% for a kindergarten place. In Dresden, for example, parents pay 268.75 euros per month for a 9-hour place in a crèche and 215.75 euros per month in a kindergarten. There are reductions for single parents and parents with several children.

The remaining costs of the daycare centers are covered by the municipalities. If a facility has an independent provider, it can pay its own share.

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