päiväkotiin

Päiväkotiin is a Finnish word that translates to "to daycare" or "into daycare". It is a common phrase used in Finland when referring to the process of enrolling a child into a daycare center or a similar early childhood education and care facility. Finland has a highly developed system of publicly funded daycare, and the concept of "päiväkotiin" is integral to many families' daily lives.

The word is formed from "päiväkoti," which means "daycare center" or "kindergarten," and the illative case ending "-in," which indicates movement into a place. Therefore, "päiväkotiin" specifically denotes the act of going to, entering, or being sent to daycare. For example, a parent might say "Lapsi menee tänään päiväkotiin" which translates to "The child is going to daycare today."

The Finnish daycare system is known for its emphasis on play-based learning, social development, and the well-being of children. Enrolling a child "päiväkotiin" is a significant step for both the child and the family, providing a structured environment for early learning and care while allowing parents to work or pursue other activities. The process of applying and securing a spot in a "päiväkoti" is a common experience for families with young children in Finland.