Varhaiskasvatuksen

Varhaiskasvatuksen, or varhaiskasvatus, refers to the system of early childhood education and care in Finland for children from infancy up to school age. It is designed to support children’s growth, learning and well-being, and to promote equal opportunities. Education and care under varhaiskasvatus is primarily organized by municipalities, but private providers also participate. Funding comes largely from municipal budgets, while parental fees are regulated by law.

The curriculum emphasizes play-based, holistic development, with a focus on language development, social skills, physical health, safety and inclusion. In practice, varhaiskasvatus is provided as day care centers (päiväkoti), family day care (perhepäivähoito), and other forms of early care. Each municipality prepares a varhaiskasvatussuunnitelma (early childhood education plan) in line with the national core curriculum and the needs of individual children. The system aims for inclusive access, with support for children with special needs and for families from diverse backgrounds, and to prepare children for esikoulu (pre-primary education) and basic education.

Legal framework and rights: Children have a right to early childhood education and care; municipalities plan and fund services, and families may participate in choosing providers. The program emphasizes safety, well-being, and continuous quality development under supervision and evaluation by authorities.

Parental involvement is encouraged, including flexibility in choosing providers (public or private) and transitions between services. While varhaiskasvatus and esikoulu are distinct stages, they are coordinated to ensure smooth progression toward compulsory education at age seven.