Differences between countries regarding early childhood education and care

In this UNICEF report about early childhood education and care in economically advanced countries, I read that neuroscientific research demonstrates that loving, stable, secure, and stimulating relationships with caregivers in the earliest months and years of life are critical for every aspect of a child’s development. Reading the report, I also noticed that there are large differences between OECD countries regarding public expenditure on child care and pre-school education services.

In the following 5 countries, more than 1% of GDP is spent on child care and pre-school education
- Iceland.
- Denmark.
- Finland.
- Sweden.
- France.

In the following 4 countries, 0.3% of GDP or less is spent on child care and pre-school education
- Japan.
- Switzerland.
- Ireland.
- Republic of Korea.