Childcare sector in the Netherlands faces persistent staff shortages

The childcare sector in the Netherlands continues to face significant staff shortages, despite a notable increase in the total number of employees. In the Gooi en Vechtstreek region, over one hundred vacancies for pedagogical staff and educational assistants were reported in the second quarter of the year. The UWV suggests that career changers and individuals receiving unemployment benefits could fill these gaps, noting that many people from backgrounds such as social work, hospitality, or administration successfully transition into childcare roles.

In Noord-Brabant, the labor market for childcare workers remains stable but tight, with approximately 400 vacancies reported. While the number of childcare employees nationwide grew from 110,000 in early 2021 to over 131,000 by the end of 2025, a national shortage of nearly 7,000 workers persists.

These shortages have led to widespread waiting lists, affecting approximately two-thirds of daycare and after-school care facilities in the country. Demand is expected to rise further as the Dutch government plans to make childcare more affordable for all parents starting in 2029.