Poland Expands Childcare for Infants: 102,000 New Places by 2029
The Active Toddler programme (Aktywnie w Żłobku) guarantees creation of over 102,000 new childcare places for children under 3 across Poland. The initiative addresses chronic shortages and includes monthly subsidies for families using approved nurseries.
Poland is creating more than 102,000 new places in crèches and children's clubs for children up to the age of three across the country by 2029 — in nurseries, children's clubs and day care providers. This expansion addresses a persistent gap: public nurseries (żłobki) have historically limited capacity, forcing many families to rely on expensive private options or informal childcare.
The government is also rolling out financial support. Families using approved nurseries can receive a monthly subsidy of 1,500 PLN towards their nursery agreement under the "Aktywnie w Żłobku" programme. This support is available throughout the year and significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs for working parents.
Regulatory Changes
By February 28, 2026, all bodies that started operating childcare institutions for children under 3 years of age before January 1, 2026 must complete data on care standards in the system. All care institutions will have to meet the necessary standards from January 1, 2026. These standards emphasise high-quality, age-appropriate care and cooperation with parents.
Practical Information for Foreigners
Foreigners with valid residence permits (Karta Pobytu) may access both public and subsidised private nurseries on the same terms as Polish citizens. Many nursery providers in major cities now offer bilingual or English-language programmes. Application timelines vary by municipality; contact your local gmina (commune) education office for availability and application deadlines.
What this means for you: If you're relocating to Poland with children under 3 and plan to work, the expanded nursery network and 1,500 PLN subsidy significantly improve affordability. Even if places are limited in your area now, the 2,000+ new places being added annually should improve availability. Many private nurseries welcome non-Polish-speaking families; search early, as bilingual and English-language facilities fill quickly.
Sources
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