In the Netherlands, the ongoing debate about parental leave is heating up, with two economists arguing that extending paid parental leave could not only benefit infants but also help alleviate staff shortages in childcare facilities. This assertion comes as the Dutch cabinet has recently postponed plans for nearly free childcare, which has been a pressing issue amidst rising costs in the sector.
According to a report by NOS on April 29, 2025, economists Thomas van Huizen from Utrecht University and Janneke Plantenga have highlighted the potential advantages of longer parental leave. They suggest that extending the current parental leave—which lasts a minimum of one week and a maximum of nine weeks, with only 70% of salary paid—could significantly reduce the demand for childcare services. This reduction would be particularly beneficial for baby groups, which are labor-intensive and require a higher staff-to-child ratio.
Van Huizen and Plantenga argue that if parental leave were extended to six months, the demand for childcare would decrease substantially, freeing up resources for older children. They estimate that if the leave were extended to a full year, the staff shortage in childcare could be eliminated completely, potentially releasing around 11,000 childcare workers back into the labor market. This could resolve the current shortfall of approximately 7,000 staff members in the sector.
However, the economists emphasize that for this plan to be effective, parents must receive full salary during their leave, rather than the current 70%. They argue that without full pay, many parents would feel pressured to return to work earlier than ideal, undermining the purpose of extended leave.
Lactation consultant Geertje van de Broek has also joined the conversation, advocating for longer maternity leave to allow mothers ample time to breastfeed. She has initiated a petition for this cause, which garnered over 8,000 signatures in just a few days. Van de Broek points to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines that recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, and continued breastfeeding for two years or longer. She questions the current system, stating, "Why must we return to work after just four months and send our babies to daycare?"
Van de Broek highlights the emotional and physical benefits of breastfeeding, noting that it fosters a deep bond between mother and child. Additionally, she cites numerous health benefits for the child, including a lower risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues later in life. She believes that investing in longer maternity leave is a small price to pay for building a healthier future generation.
Despite the growing support for longer parental leave, there are concerns about the financial implications for businesses. Van de Broek has heard from some in the business community that extending paid leave could be financially burdensome. However, the economists argue that the long-term benefits—both for children and for the economy—far outweigh the costs.
Research has shown that children who attend childcare do better academically and are less likely to experience poverty or engage in criminal behavior as they grow older. Furthermore, studies indicate that affordable childcare can yield significant economic returns. For instance, research from Spain suggests that every euro invested in childcare results in a four-euro return for the government, primarily due to the positive impacts on child development.
As the Dutch government prepares to unveil a new childcare financing plan and potential changes to parental leave policies later this year, the discussion around extending paid parental leave is likely to intensify. The cabinet aims to create a more straightforward and reliable system for parents, with the childcare allowance expected to gradually increase to 96% for all working parents by 2029.
In conclusion, the push for longer parental leave in the Netherlands reflects a broader recognition of the importance of early childhood development and the need to support families. The arguments presented by economists and advocates alike underscore the potential benefits of such a policy—not just for children and parents, but also for the childcare sector and the economy as a whole.
