vaativuusryhmä

A vaativuusryhmä, or "demand group" in English, is a classification system used in Finland to categorize the level of support and special education services a child or student requires. This system is primarily applied within the early childhood education and care sector and the comprehensive school system. The purpose of vaativuusryhmä is to ensure that children and students receive appropriate and individualized educational and care provisions tailored to their specific needs, which can range from mild learning difficulties to severe disabilities.

There are typically several levels within the vaativuusryhmä system, each corresponding to a different intensity of support. A lower demand group indicates a child or student who may need some general support or minor adaptations, while a higher demand group signifies a need for extensive and specialized interventions, often involving multidisciplinary teams of professionals such as special education teachers, psychologists, therapists, and social workers.

The assessment for determining a child's vaativuusryhmä is usually conducted by educational authorities or professionals in collaboration with parents or guardians. It involves evaluating the child's developmental status, learning abilities, social-emotional skills, and any potential health or functional impairments. The classification directly influences the allocation of resources, the development of individual education plans (IEPs), and the availability of specific support services. The goal is to promote the child's overall development, learning, and participation in educational settings.