Introduction

The erosion of the male breadwinner/female homemaker family form constitutes one of the critical challenges confronting contemporary welfare states. Whereas other important challenges—such as those posed by “globalization” (economic and political) or the postindustrial “trilemma” ¹ —are usually associated with pressures for retrenchment, the decline of the male-breadwinner family challenges states to take on new responsibilities. As it can no longer be assumed that mothers/wives/daughters are at home, ready and able to care for young children, the sick, the disabled, and the elderly, alternative arrangements are called for. Of the various measures to reconcile work and family life, child care policies are especially important as they can also help to solve the demographic problem posed by an aging society. Quality early childhood care and education can also contribute to greater social equality and provide the foundations for lifelong learning.