Lastenhoiva

Lastenhoiva is the Finnish term for the care and upbringing of children, typically from birth to about six years of age. In practice it encompasses both supervision and support for children’s development, often combining everyday care with play and learning activities. The concept is closely connected to varhaiskasvatus, or early childhood education and care, which integrates care with developmentally appropriate learning to prepare children for compulsory schooling.

Settings for lastenhoiva include family-based arrangements and formal early childhood facilities. Family day care (perhepäivähoito) involves a caregiver hosting a small group of children in a home setting. Day care centers (päiväkoti) are municipally or privately operated facilities that provide care to larger groups, typically alongside organized educational activities. Services may also be supplemented by informal care arrangements, though formal providers are subject to licensing and quality standards.

Core services within lastenhoiva cover safety, healthy meals and nutrition, daily routines, and opportunities for motor, language, social, and cognitive development. Emphasis is placed on play-based learning, social interaction, and individualized support for children with special needs or diverse backgrounds. Family support and parental involvement are commonly encouraged, recognizing the role of carers and families in children's development.

Regulation and funding are largely managed by municipalities, with private providers operating under national guidelines and licensing requirements. Public funding and subsidies help families access care, and fees are typically regulated or income-adjusted. Qualification requirements for staff vary, but many roles are held by professionals trained in early childhood education.