Esikouluun

Esikouluun refers to the Finnish term for preschool, a crucial stage in early childhood education. It is a year of voluntary education that children typically attend the year before they begin compulsory schooling at age seven. The primary goal of esikouluun is to support children's overall development, including their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills, preparing them for the transition to primary school.

The curriculum in esikouluun is play-based and focuses on fostering learning through exploration and interaction. Activities are designed to encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and a love for learning. Key areas of focus include language and literacy development, mathematical thinking, artistic expression, and an introduction to the natural world and social skills. Children engage in group activities, free play, and structured learning experiences tailored to their developmental stage.

Esikouluun is provided by municipalities and is generally free of charge for residents. It is staffed by trained early childhood education professionals, such as preschool teachers. The program aims to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to quality early learning experiences. The emphasis is on creating a supportive and stimulating environment where children can thrive and build a strong foundation for their future educational journey. Attendance in esikouluun is highly encouraged as it is seen as a significant contributor to a child's successful integration into the school system.