Early childhood education and care

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) is part of the Finnish education system and an important stage on the child’s path of growing and learning. ECEC lays a foundation for lifelong learning. The Finnish ECEC is based on an integrated approach to care, education and teaching, the so-called “educare” model, with particular emphasis on pedagogy.

All children under school-age have a subjective right to early childhood education and care (ECEC). The guardians of the child can decide whether or not their child participates in ECEC.  If the guardians choose to take care of their child at home, they are entitled to home care leave and allowance until the child turns three years old.

The municipalities are responsible for arranging the ECEC services. The quality of ECEC is improved through systematic evaluation. Guardians can also choose for private ECEC settings.  

It's always a big change for the whole family, when a child starts in a daycare. This recording answers the most common practical questions related to the everyday life of early childhood education and care.

Read more Finnish education in a nutshell | Finnish National Agency for Education (oph.fi)

• Municipal early childhood education in Hyvinkää
• Applying for services
• Application process
• Early childhood education fees
• Early childhood education and care curriculum
• Private day care in Hyvinkää

Information of early childhood education and care in other languages (oph.fi): Tietoa varhaiskasvatuksesta vanhemmille ja huoltajille | Opetushallitus (oph.fi)

Information