Early childhood education and care

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) refers to the systematic and goal-oriented entity that consists of upbringing, education and care of children and places special emphasis on pedagogy. Early childhood education and care is provided as centre-based early education activities, family-based daycare activities and open early childhood education and care activities.

Local authorities are responsible for ensuring that early childhood education and care is provided in accordance with the needs of children and families. The Ministry of Education and Culture is responsible for the overall planning, guidance and monitoring of early childhood education and care.