Madrid Invests 67.3 Million in Aid for 0-3 Year Old Early Childhood Education

Around 34,000 Madrid families will benefit from annual vouchers for private centers, adjusted to family income.

Generic image of a small child's hand holding an adult's finger, symbolizing support for early childhood education.
IA

Generic image of a small child's hand holding an adult's finger, symbolizing support for early childhood education.

The regional Government has approved an investment of 67.3 million euros to facilitate access to early childhood education for 0 to 3 year olds in private centers, benefiting approximately 34,000 Madrid families with vouchers for the 2026/27 academic year.

This significant budget allocation aims to strengthen support for the earliest educational stage, enabling families who choose authorized private centers to cover school expenses. The measure translates into direct aid for children up to three years old, with amounts adjusted to each household's economic situation.
The aid, ranging from 1,947 to 3,113 euros annually, will be calculated based on family income. This system ensures that families with fewer resources receive greater support, covering a significant portion of the monthly fee and contributing to the balance of their household economy.
To qualify for these scholarships, children must have been born or be expected to be born before January 1, 2027, and be enrolled or have a confirmed place reservation for the 2026/27 academic year in an authorized private center. The call prioritizes work-life balance, granting 7 points to families where both parents work full-time, or in single-parent households with full-time employment. This score is also considered if one parent works full-time and the other has a permanent disability.
The call also addresses special situations, such as large families, cases of disability in parents or children, and victims of violence against women. Additionally, children over three with special educational needs, accredited by the Early Care Team, may extend their stay in the first cycle of early childhood education and continue to apply for the scholarship if needed for their development. The renewal of aid is permitted for students already receiving it in the 2025/26 academic year, provided they meet the economic and employment requirements.
Since 2019, schooling in the public network of the Community of Madrid has been free. However, this voucher system for private centers is maintained to guarantee parents' freedom of choice in their children's education.