Ryhmäperhepäivähoito

Ryhmäperhepäivähoito, often translated as group family day care, is a form of early childhood education and care in Finland. It is an alternative to center-based daycare and home-based family day care. In this model, a trained early childhood education professional cares for a small group of children in their own home or in a specifically adapted space. Typically, a group consists of four to eight children, with a maximum of two children under three years old. The group size is kept small to provide a more intimate and home-like environment for the children.

The group family day care provider is usually employed by the municipality or a private service provider. They are responsible for the daily care, education, and well-being of the children in their charge. The curriculum and pedagogical approach align with the national core curriculum for early childhood education, emphasizing play-based learning, social interaction, and individual development. This setting aims to offer a balance between the benefits of a small group and the structured curriculum of a daycare center. Parents choose ryhmäperhepäivähoito for its perceived advantages such as a lower child-to-staff ratio, a more predictable and stable care environment, and a connection to a family-like atmosphere. It is a regulated service, and providers must meet specific quality standards and undergo regular inspections to ensure child safety and developmental support.