"The European Union recognizes the importance of the early years of life; referring to it as 'a window of opportunity in which the basis for all later learning processes are laid'. The EUs 'childcare' policies form an integral part of its strategy for growth and jobs and aim to help young parents – and in particular women – into work. As such a range of the EUs policies, programmes and initiatives aim to affect the lives of young children and their parents in a positive manner." (Quoted from article)