Ukraine will change its approach to building kindergartens to better meet children's needs
New state building codes for preschool education facilities will take effect in Ukraine on October 1, 2026. They will change the approach to the design of daycare centers, kindergartens, and special preschool institutions.
According to the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development, the new requirements take into account the provisions of the updated Law “On Preschool Education” and provide for more flexible planning of kindergartens.
Under the new standards, the number of rooms, their floor area, and the number of play and sports areas will be determined not by standard templates but based on the number of children, their ages, the facility’s operating format, and the organization of the educational process. In addition, a single space will be able to serve multiple functions.
“We are radically changing our approach to the design of preschool education facilities. The new standards are centered on the child and their needs,” said Natalia Kozlovska, Deputy Minister of Community and Territorial Development.
Separately, the document simplifies the requirements for small institutions. This applies to nurseries and kindergartens designed for up to 40 children, as well as special preschool institutions with up to 24 pupils. This should make it easier to establish small kindergartens in residential and public buildings, as well as at workplaces for employees’ children.
The new rules also strengthen accessibility requirements. Kindergartens must be adapted for children with special educational needs so that they can learn in regular classes.
The new building codes will apply to the construction of new preschool facilities, as well as to the renovation and major repairs of existing kindergartens.
This was announced on July 17 by the Ministry of Development.
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