North Rhine‑Westphalia advances controversial ABC‑class and Kita reforms

The CDU‑Green coalition in the North Rhine‑Westphalia state parliament is set to pass two highly disputed laws before the summer break: a reform of the child‑care (Kita) law and the introduction of so‑called ABC‑classes for children with weak language skills. The SPD opposition forced a third reading of both bills, pushing the final votes to the evening of the last plenary session before the holidays.

The ABC‑classes, planned to start in the 2028/29 school year, will target roughly 50,000 children and provide up to two weekly two‑hour language sessions for one year. Critics, including the German Daycare Association, unions and the FDP, warn of high transport costs, a need for about 1,650 additional teachers and the risk of separating children from their regular daycare environment. The Kita reform also proposes a core‑time model and reduced opening hours, raising concerns among parents about childcare availability.

SPD spokesman Dennis Maelzer described the proposals as “highly contested” and argued that they should not be rushed through late‑evening votes without proper amendment.