The Finnish model

The main objective of the Finnish model is to increase the wellbeing of children and young people. The aim is to enable every child and young person to have a leisure activity in connection with the school day that they enjoy and one that is free of charge.

The Finnish model for leisure activities aims to offer every child and young person (years 1 to 9 in primary and lower secondary education) a leisure activity in connection with the school day that they enjoy and one that is free of charge. 

The Finnish model combines consultation of children and young people on leisure activities, coordination of existing good procedures and practices, and cooperation between schools and leisure activity providers. The model was entered in the Youth Act in 2023.

In all, 267 municipalities are implementing the model, covering 91 per cent of municipalities in mainland Finland.

Commissioned by the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC) evaluated the functionality, impacts and achievement of the objectives set for the Finnish model for leisure activities. 

• Evaluation of the Finnish Model for Leisure Activities

Also the Programme of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's Government (2023) ensure that every child and young person can pursue at least one leisure activity of their choice. Particular attention will be paid to children and young people who either do not have a leisure activity or who have dropped out.