Pre-primary education is part of early childhood education and care, and the child usually starts it in the year when they turn six. In Finland, children are required to participate in pre-primary education or other similar activities for one year before compulsory education begins. Pre-primary education lasts approximately four hours a day.
Pre-primary education is free of charge, and so are the learning materials and tools used in teaching and the required pupil welfare services. Children are also offered a free meal on each day of pre-primary education.
In pre-primary education, children have the chance to get excited, experiment and learn new things. It also offers opportunities for children to have diverse interactions and strengthen their social skills.
More information on child care and early childhood education and care.