Emilia‑Romagna early‑school programme draws thousands of registrations

Regional and municipal pilots that open schools and childcare centres before the official start of the academic year on 31 August have attracted strong interest across Italy. In Bologna, the “La scuola che parte insieme” project received around 900 enrolments on the first day for 2 500 places, while in Forlì the municipality accepted all 763 applications, including 46 children with disabilities, to run a two‑week programme from 31 August to 11 September. A similar initiative in the Imola district recorded 476 requests, filling more than half of the 845 spots offered. Municipalities such as Pietracatella and Cosenza have also opened enrolment for micronido and summer‑camp services, confirming the demand for early‑childhood support.

At the national level, the Senate has debated a proposal to ban the use of digital devices for children under three years, backed by pediatric societies and child‑rights organisations, aiming to protect neuro‑cognitive development. Meanwhile, unions in Lucca have warned that uncertainty over the reopening of a hospital‑run nursery for staff children could create difficulties for dozens of families.

The combined response highlights a growing emphasis on early‑education access and child‑focused policy across Italy.