Britain's Princess Kate wants to draw more attention to gaps and weaknesses in early childhood education. "Not enough is being done," wrote the 40-year-old - now officially Princess of Wales - in a guest article in the British daily newspaper "The Telegraph" on Saturday. "If we are to create a healthier and happier society for future generations, we must recognize and understand the unique importance of the first five years of life," Kate continued.

The brain develops faster during this time than in any other phase of life, as science now knows. Experiences and interactions during those years would have a huge impact on how you relate later, how you get on at work, or how healthy you are.

"I am determined to continue to draw attention to this issue and do everything I can to bring more focus to the crucial early years of the youngest in our society," wrote Prince William's wife. "You are our future, after all."

According to the Telegraph, which cites figures from the British school supervisory authority Ofsted, 4,000 childcare facilities were closed in Great Britain last year - often due to staff shortages. In addition, the corona pandemic has placed a heavy burden on the care and supervision of small children in recent years.