Mönchengladbach's Youth Policy: Expansion of Daycare Centers, Inclusion, and New Providers

Expansion of Childcare and Kindergartens in Mönchengladbach

The city of Mönchengladbach has actively promoted child-friendly infrastructure in recent years. In February 2026, key decisions were made to drive the expansion of childcare and the achievement of target quotas by 2030/2031. Currently, the childcare coverage rate for children under three years of age (U3) is at 49.7%, while it is already at 99.7% for children aged 3–6 years (Ü3). The goal is to reach 55% for U3 and 105% for Ü3 by 2030/2031.

To this end, 27 new kindergarten buildings are planned by 2030/2031, with nine of them to be built in newly developed residential areas. The district of Süd is particularly affected, as it has the highest need for expansion. In addition, the city plans to decommission 6 container facilities and 4 existing kindergartens to use resources more strategically.

Strengthening Inclusion: Challenges and Solutions

Another focus of youth policy in Mönchengladbach is inclusion. By the end of 2025, 455 children with special support needs were cared for in childcare, with over 300 of them placed in municipal kindergartens. However, due to the Federal Participation Act (Bundesteilhabegesetz), more than 300 places cannot be regularly filled, leading to a reduction in general childcare slots.

The city is responding with the qualification of educational professionals and the search for seven therapeutic educational specialists, to ensure childcare quality. In addition, a network with early intervention centers and therapists is being expanded to provide targeted support for children with special needs.

New Youth Welfare Providers: Recognition of the Palestinian Community

A special milestone in youth welfare was the recognition of the Palestinian Community Mönchengladbach e.V. as an independent youth welfare provider. According to § 75 SGB VIII, the association was provisionally recognized until December 31, 2027. The community offers educational and leisure activities for up to 100 children, including language support, tutoring, and homework assistance. Particularly children with a migration background benefit from these services.

A prerequisite for recognition was a child protection concept, which was reviewed by the youth welfare office. In addition, a pedagogical leadership position with a qualified specialist must be filled. This measure underlines the importance of diversity and integration in youth welfare.

Youth Work and Youth Council: Strengthening Participation

In addition to childcare, youth work is another focus in Mönchengladbach. The city supports projects such as the summer program "Kreativstadt" by the Generationen gGmbH, the educational mentorship program by Caritas, and the work of the Rollbrett Union e.V., which focuses on skate parks and sports opportunities.

The youth council also decided on the re-election of its chairperson and the revision of guidelines for youth work. The goal is to strengthen the participation of young people and integrate their topic initiatives more strongly into the political agenda.

Child Protection and Prevention: Strengthening a Cross-Cutting Task

Child protection has a high priority in Mönchengladbach. A central instrument is the Child Protection Concept, which was adopted in 2023. A particular focus this year was on prevention in sports clubs and inclusive child protection.

The city is relying on preventive measures such as the campaign "Children Have Rights" and the project "Children's Lifeline." In addition, a reporting form for suspected child endangerment is being further developed to improve early intervention.

Future Perspectives: Expanding Infrastructure and Attracting Qualified Staff

The city looks to the future with optimism. Through the expansion of kindergartens, the strengthening of inclusion, and the integration of new providers into youth welfare, Mönchengladbach will further consolidate its position as a child- and family-friendly city.

At the same time, staff shortages and land shortages are challenges the city is addressing through solutions such as cooperation with schools, the marketing of vacant plots, and a presence in social media to attract young professionals.

Conclusion: A City in Transition

Mönchengladbach is emerging as a pioneer in youth policy. With a clear focus on expansion, inclusion, and participation, the city is setting standards in the areas of childcare and youth work. The challenges are significant, but the strategy is clear: a child-friendly, inclusive, and future-oriented urban development.