Mandatory kindergarten (pre-school) from the age of 3 was introduced in Hungary in 2015 (codified by the Act CXC of 2011 on Public Upbringing ). In practice, this means that every child has to enroll in kindergarten in the academic year starting after their 3rd birthday (unless the family requests and receives exemption until age 4 based on personal circumstances).
Mandatory language assessment in Grade 0 is a universal national reform introduced in Denmark in 2009. It requires all children in public schools to undergo language screening at the start of compulsory schooling, with the aim of identifying language difficulties early, standardizing previously uneven local practices, and informing subsequent pedagogical responses.
Launched in England in 1998, the Sure Start Intervention sought to provide comprehensive support to families with young children in disadvantaged areas, giving them the best possible start in life.
Due to robust family support systems that help balance work and childcare, Norway exhibits some of the highest maternal employment rates in Europe.
The expansion of preschool access in the last two decades has been a non-linear, interdependent, and complex process, shaped by multiple layers of influence and barriers.