Care at a Private Day-Care Centre

Starting a private daycare centre in Finland requires a permit from the Finnish Supervisory Agency (LVV). Since January 2023, private daycare operations are fully permit-regulated under the Early Childhood Education and Care Act. This applies to any company, association, or organization providing daycare services.

Your permit application must cover the premises, staffing plan, early childhood education curriculum, and safety arrangements. LVV inspects the facilities before granting approval. You also need to meet staff qualification requirements set by law, including a qualified early childhood education teacher for each group. Once operating, your daycare is supervised by both LVV and the municipality.

Requirements

  • Age requirement: Early childhood education can be provided to a child who is not yet subject to compulsory education
  • Special cases: A child of compulsory school age may also receive day care if special circumstances require it and care cannot otherwise be arranged
  • Regulation: Activity is in accordance with the Early Childhood Education and Care Act and supervised by authorities

Service characteristics

  • Providers: Companies, communities or NGOs
  • Special features: Can offer early childhood education in different languages, Montessori or Waldorf pedagogy
  • Emphases: Various hobbies, religious education or other special emphases
  • Choice: Parents can choose a private day-care centre that meets the family's needs