5 Best Countries to Raise a Family

VIVA – For some people, family comes first because they are related to each other through blood, and marriage, also share a bond of emotional connection, mutual support, and commitment. Family is a significant institution in many cultures and societies, and it provides a foundation for the development of children and the well-being of adults.

The concept of family has evolved over time, but its fundamental role in providing love, support, and connection remains unchanged. Well, there are 5 best countries to raise a family and become good parents. 

According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Iceland spends about 1.8 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on early childhood education and care. This is the highest of any country.

Because of this, childcare in Iceland is relatively affordable. According to OECD data, the average parent spends only about 5 percent of their income on childcare.

In addition, Iceland's policies that favor working parents are one of the reasons why this European country has the highest female labor force rate among OECD-monitored countries, at more than 82 percent.

In comparison, the United States spends only 0.3 percent of its GDP on early education and childcare. Meanwhile, the average US parent spends about 19 percent of their income on childcare.

Meanwhile, in 2021, Canada will spend US$22 billion or the equivalent of IDR 336.5 trillion over five years to reduce the cost of early education and child care. In this case, Canada refers to research showing that every dollar spent on early years education will provide economic benefits and give parents more freedom to engage in the workforce.

Then, children in Estonia aged between 18 months and seven years are guaranteed a place in a childcare institution. Similarly, children in Germany are guaranteed a place until they reach primary school. It is reported that childcare is free in some cities.

Iceland, Estonia, Germany, Canada, and New Zealand have an important factor in common: they each offer strong childcare policies that make early childhood education and care widely available and affordable.

Check the list here:

1. Iceland

2. Estonia

3. Germany

4. Canada

5. New Zealand