Ministry of Education and Culture grants one million euros for the development of early childhood education (ECEC) provided in hospitals. This special state grant is intended to municipalities and joint municipal authorities interested in developing ECEC for children in need of hospital care. 

At present, the provision of ECEC for children in hospitals varies between regions and it is not available in all hospitals.  The aim of this special grant is to enable children to take part in ECEC both during their hospitalisation and on the transition period between when returning home but the participation in traditional ECEC is not yet possible for health reasons.  Another objective is to promote co-operation and networking between regional and national organisations providing ECEC in hospitals.

The special grant strengthens the possibility to participate in ECEC for children who otherwise remain out of ECEC services due to illness or injury. Participation in ECEC activities during a hospital brings joy to children’s lives and support their development and learning.

More information: 

• https://okm.fi/-/sairaalassa-jarjestettavan-varhaiskasvatuksen-kehittamiseksi-suunnattu-valtionavustushaku-2022
• https://okm.fi/-/sairaalassa-jarjestettavan-varhaiskasvatuksen-kehittamiseen-haettavissa-miljoona-euroa

Source:  Eurydice Unit Finland