All children under school-age have a subjective right to early childhood education and care (ECEC) should their parents so decide. The municipalities are responsible for arranging the ECEC services, for their quality and supervision. Families can also opt for publicly subsidised private ECEC settings. The Finnish ECEC is based on an integrated approach to care, education and teaching, the so-called “educare” model. Learning through play is essential.
ECEC is primarily organised in day-care centres and in family day-care. Other forms of ECEC services include clubs run by the local parishes and other non-governmental organisations and the various forms of open early childhood education activities organised by the municipalities for children and their families. The content of ECEC is guided by the National Curriculum Guidelines on ECEC (2005). Participation in ECEC is subject to a fee which depends on family income and the number of children. Client fees in municipal ECEC cover about 14 percent of the total costs.