A1 Journal article (refereed)
Finnish early childhood education : building a strong foundation for the future (2023)

Harju-Luukkainen, H. (2023). Finnish early childhood education : building a strong foundation for the future. Asia - Pacific Journal of Teacher Education, 51(5), 413-422. https://doi.org/10.1080/1359866x.2023.2238952

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Harju-Luukkainen, Heidi

Journal or series: Asia - Pacific Journal of Teacher Education

ISSN: 1359-866X

eISSN: 1469-2945

Publication year: 2023

Publication date: 26/07/2023

Volume: 51

Issue number: 5

Pages range: 413-422

Publisher: Routledge

Publication country: Australia

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1359866x.2023.2238952

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access: 

Abstract

The Finnish education system has garnered significant international interest due to its consistently high rankings for decades. However, the same level of interest has not been extended to the country’s early childhood education system. In Finland, early childhood education and care are regarded as the cornerstones of the Finnish education system, crucial for a child’s learning, development, and lifelong learning. Research literature underscores the positive impact of a high-quality early learning environment on individuals as well as society. In Finland, policy documents provide guidance to early childhood education and care (ECEC) at various levels, encompassing values, descriptions of child development, collaboration, learning, and pedagogy. These guidelines are implemented by personnel who work closely with families and children. This paper is an adapted version of a keynote talk delivered during the Online ATEA 2022 conference. It aims to provide readers with an overview of the Finnish Early Childhood Education System, highlight key policies, and contribute to the discussion on ECEC by presenting snapshots of recent practice-oriented research in the Finnish system.

Keywords: early childhood education and care; pedagogy; play-based pedagogy

Free keywords: Finland; early childhood education; pedagogy; playful learning

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2023

JUFO rating: 1