• Project number: F 2606
• Institution: Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA)
• Status: Ongoing Project
• Planned end: 2029-12-31

Description:

The aim of the project is to improve the recovery and health of early childhood education professionals – especially kindergarten and nursery teachers. This occupational group is often exposed to high levels of stress: noise, constant responsibility, and emotional demands frequently lead to exhaustion, illness, and absenteeism. These factors affect not only the staff themselves but also the quality of care and the well-being of the children.

The project investigates how targeted recovery interventions at the workplace can strengthen the physical and mental health as well as the work ability of educators. Two types of measures are compared: organizational approaches that improve the structural conditions at the workplace (e.g., quiet break areas, more flexible break arrangements) and behavioral approaches that support individual recovery behavior (e.g., planning breaks, mindfulness techniques).

The research is based on two pillars: First, existing large-scale survey data will be analyzed to identify recovery problems, work-related stressors, and health consequences. Second, a practical intervention study will be conducted in 64 childcare centers. In these centers, recovery measures will be implemented together with the staff and evaluated over a period of ten months.

The project provides concrete recommendations for designing healthy working conditions in early childhood education. It strengthens preventive approaches in occupational health and safety and supplies organizations with digital learning tools and practical materials. In the long term, the project aims to reduce the burden on educational staff and support high-quality care and education for young children.