Varhaiskasvatusta
Varhaiskasvatusta refers to early childhood education and care (ECEC) in Finland, provided for children from birth to about age six. It combines caregiving with learning opportunities and support for development, aiming to prepare children for compulsory schooling and for participate in society. It operates as a universal public service alongside private and third-sector providers.
The purpose of varhaiskasvatusta is to support the holistic development of the child—cognitive, language, social, emotional,
Organization and providers vary. Varhaiskasvatusta is organized by municipalities but can also be delivered by private
Legal framework and planning: Varhaiskasvatusta is governed by the Act on Early Childhood Education and Care
Funding and access: Services are publicly funded with parental fees assessed according to income, alongside municipal