Dagplejer

Dagplejer is a Danish term for a home-based child care provider who cares for a small group of children in the caregiver’s own home. It is part of Denmark’s early childhood education and care system and is often described in English as family day care or in-home day care.

A dagplejer cares for children from infancy to preschool age in a home setting. Groups are intentionally small, typically around five children or fewer, which distinguishes dagpleje from larger daycare centers.

Regulation and standards: Dagplejers must be approved and registered with the local municipality. They are required to provide a safe environment, follow national guidelines for early childhood care, hold up-to-date first aid training, and pass background checks. Local authorities commonly conduct regular visits and offer professional support and guidance.

Working with families and funding: Parents arrange dagpleje through the municipality or directly with the dagplejer. The municipality typically subsidizes the care and pays the dagplejer per child, with families paying a co-payment. Dagplejers may operate as self-employed individuals or be employed by a municipality or dagpleje provider.

Role in the system: Dagpleje offers a more intimate, home-like setting compared with institutional daycare and can be an option for families seeking flexible hours or a familiar environment for very young children. The arrangement is one component of Denmark’s diverse landscape of early childhood care.