Childcare in Marburg: Fee Increases, Specialist Committees, and Social Inclusion

Marburg's Childcare Policy in February 2026: Fees, Structure, and Inclusion

The city of Marburg has increasingly addressed the challenges of childcare in recent months—both in terms of financial resources and structural and social organization. In February 2026, several decisions and discussions emerged that could shape the future of childcare services in the region.

Fee Increases and Financial Structure

Central to the debates were the planned fee increases in kindergartens and early childhood education from April 1, 2026. The statutory amendments were passed by the Youth Welfare Committee (Jugendhilfeausschuss, JHA) and affect both childcare fees and the costs of lunch provision.

For children aged three and above until school entry, a modular system is being introduced: Module 1 (up to 6 hours) is free of charge, Module 2 (up to 8 hours) costs 60 € per month, and Module 3 (up to 10 hours) 120 €. Children under three and after-school care children also face higher fees, although a sibling discount has been introduced—70% for the second child, 50% for the third child, and no fees for additional children.

The city emphasizes that the increases aim to balance the tension between financial sustainability and social inclusion. Low-income families continue to be supported through discounts or the waiver of fees. The current rate is 21.3%, with a total of 676 children being cared for in municipal and private facilities.

Specialist Committees and Political Structure

The decisions were made within the framework of the Specialist Committee on Childcare, which intensively addresses issues such as inclusion, health promotion, and the quality of childcare. A relevant session took place on December 3, 2025, during which the new head of the specialist department was introduced. Topics such as handling sick children, inclusive childcare, and democratic education in early childhood were on the agenda.

In February 2026, a by-election was also necessary in the Specialist Committee, underscoring the importance of this body for shaping childcare policy. The ongoing discussion about better child protection in schools, particularly with a planned intervention concept, also shows that the focus on safety and protection is increasing.

Social Inclusion and Legal Foundations

The city of Marburg emphasizes that childcare policy must always align with the principles of social inclusion and equal opportunities. Legal foundations such as § 90 SGB VIII and § 890 SGB VIII form the basis for calculating the reasonable burden and the assumption of costs for lunch provision. For certain social benefits, such as SGB II, SGB XII, or housing allowance, full cost coverage is provided.

The administration has established a clarifying procedure: Parents can submit applications that are then reviewed and decided upon. The communication of the new fee structure to parents was also addressed to ensure transparency and understanding.

Outlook and Challenges

In the coming years, particularly 2027 and 2028, further price adjustments are planned, with the city relying on long-term planning in this area as well. The current discussions on childcare hours, modules, and kindergarten opening times show that Marburg is working toward a more flexible and family-friendly structure. At the same time, the question of the quality of childcare and the equipment of professionals remains a central issue.

The city of Marburg stresses that these measures take into account societal change and the increasing demands on childcare. The work within the Specialist Committee and the close cooperation with private providers aim to ensure that Marburg continues to offer affordable, inclusive, and high-quality childcare in the future.