Abu Dhabi Welcomes Newborns in Nurseries
New Opportunity in Abu Dhabi: Enrolling Newborns in Nurseries - Opinions of Parents and Institutions
The new regulation by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has received mixed reactions from both nursery owners and parents. The directive, which takes effect in the 2024-2025 school year and becomes mandatory in the 2025-2026 school year, allows institutions to accept infants as young as one day old. This marks a significant departure from previous guidelines that restricted the early enrollment of newborns.
Purpose of the New Regulation
Under ADEK's new regulation, the minimum enrollment age for nurseries is one day, and the maximum is four years. The measure aims to provide equal opportunities for all children and establish fair enrollment guidelines. The policy decision is driven by the desire to offer parents more flexibility in placing their child while also creating clear frameworks for nurseries.
Parents' Reactions
The new regulation has elicited mixed emotions among parents. The father of a 47-day-old baby strongly opposes the measure. "I am vehemently against this option, especially as the UAE government provides adequate maternity leave for working mothers," he stated. He added, "It's crucial that the child receives the necessary nutrition through breastfeeding and avoid the use of formula."
However, other parents are more open to the new regulation, stating that the measure offers more options and gives families full discretion over their decision. They believe the flexibility may be particularly beneficial for those returning to work quickly or lacking family support options.
Nursery Owners' Opinions
Nursery leaders are also divided on the new regulation. Some argue that accepting one-day-old infants presents significant logistical and caregiving challenges, while others welcome the measure for potentially expanding nursery availability and increasing choices for families.
A nursery director mentioned, "It's unlikely that mothers will enroll their newborns on the first day, but the new regulation offers greater freedom, which can be useful in special situations."
What Impact Could This Regulation Have on Society?
One of the key questions about the new regulation is how it will affect ideas about family life and childcare practices in the UAE. Experts suggest that the directive aims to support working parents, particularly mothers concerned about returning to work. However, they emphasize that the early months and years are critical for child development, so each family should make an individual decision in the child's best interest.
Final Thoughts
ADEK's new regulation could undoubtedly bring revolutionary changes to the nursery system in the UAE. How this decision will impact parenting practices and social structures in the long run remains uncertain. One thing is certain, however: dialogue between parents and institutions will be essential for successful implementation. The UAE government must continue to support families through policies that consider the diverse needs of children and parents.
