The Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation has declared 2026 the Year of Preschool Education within the education system. This initiative aims to improve the quality of upbringing and development of preschoolers, enhance kindergarten infrastructure, and support educators.
"Preschool education is the solid foundation upon which a child's future is built. It is educators who help children develop social skills, establish communication with peers, and foster an interest in exploring the world around them. I also note that it is in early childhood that the basic knowledge and skills necessary for successful mastery of the school curriculum are formed. We will continue to ensure every child's access to quality preschool education and create conditions for the comprehensive development of the younger generation," stated Russian Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov.
Throughout the Year of Preschool Education, events aimed at improving children's conditions in preschool institutions will be held across the country. Special attention will be paid to research activities, improving regulatory frameworks, organizational and methodological support, and developing human resources.
Key tasks include developing and approving procedures for the examination of educational and upbringing resources, amending the federal state educational standard for preschool education to enhance the effectiveness of educational objectives.
Thus, in 2026, the Program for Educating Parents of Preschoolers will continue its phased implementation across Russian regions. By 2030, the program is planned to be rolled out in all constituent entities of the Russian Federation.
Furthermore, experts will develop recommendations for designing educational spaces and forming infrastructure, including for children with disabilities.
A unified Russian digital resource for preschool education will be launched for teaching staff and parents, featuring a section "Kindergarten Heads" presenting best practices and management solutions. Access to materials will also be available via the MAX messenger.
It is noted that the plan for implementing these measures will be refined based on proposals from organizations subordinate to the Russian Ministry of Education. The creation of an Organizing Committee for the organizational and methodological support of the Year of Preschool Education is also envisaged.
2025 was declared the Year of Children's Recreation in the education system by the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation. This initiative was connected with the anniversaries of the country's largest federal children's centers: the 100th anniversary of the ICC "Artek," the 65th anniversary of the AYC "Orlyonok," and the 40th anniversary of the AYC "Smena."