Melanie G. Lietz

Prof. Dr. Melanie G. Lietz is Professor of Childhood Education with a focus on education and health at Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, where she also serves as Head of the Bachelor's program in Childhood Education and Health within the Faculty of Health Sciences. She maintains an active role in both academic and practical domains of early childhood education, holding multiple advisory positions with governmental bodies including the Lower Saxony Ministry for Social Affairs and the Ministry of Education.

Her research interests center on the intersection of education and health in early childhood settings, with particular emphasis on movement in education, children's health in institutions, psychomotor competence development, inclusive health education approaches, and childhood pedagogy of diversity. She investigates how movement, circus elements, and physicality serve as foundational approaches in educational work with children.

Prof. Lietz's recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on practical applications of theoretical concepts, addressing current challenges in early childhood education including workforce shortages, safety protocols, inclusive education frameworks, and comprehensive child healthcare initiatives like the KIZS-GENIAL project.

Her notable recognitions include the prestigious Köln-Preis 2009 and summa cum laude distinctions for both her dissertation and disputatio in 2010. She has served as lead editor for special issues on 'Quality in Early Childhood Education and Care' and 'Racism in Child and Youth Welfare' in the Youth Welfare Report.

Prof. Lietz maintains active collaborations with multiple institutions including the University of Cologne, governmental bodies, and international organizations like UNICEF. Her advisory roles span from municipal to European levels, demonstrating her significant influence in shaping early childhood education policy and practice.