In early childhood education and care, the child’s day progresses according to a safe and predictable daily rhythm. The day includes play, learning, physical activity, meals, rest and togetherness. A clear daily rhythm helps the child feel secure and supports wellbeing and learning.
A child’s everyday life in early childhood education and care
Start of the day
The day begins with a calm reception. Staff welcome the child and, if necessary, exchange news with the guardian. The aim is that the child can start the day safely and in a good mood.
Play
Play is an important part of the child’s day. Through play the child learns new skills, practices interaction and processes experiences. In early childhood education and care, the child has time for both self-directed and guided play.
Learning and guided activities
In early childhood education and care, learning happens in all parts of the day. Children explore, experiment, discuss and practice new skills together with others. Activities are planned taking into account the children’s age, interests and stage of development.
Outdoor play and physical activity
Children are active every day both indoors and outdoors. Physical activity supports the development of motor skills, body control and wellbeing. Outdoor time also provides opportunities for play, exploration and observing nature.
In early childhood education and care, we go outside daily regardless of the weather, so it is important that the child has weather-appropriate clothing and equipment. This way the child can participate safely and comfortably in outdoor activities throughout the year.
Meals
In early childhood education and care we eat healthily and variedly. We encourage children to try new foods and to get to know different flavors at their own pace. Mealtime is also a shared moment where good table manners, interaction and independence are practised.
Rest and relaxation
The day includes time for rest and calming down. The youngest children may sleep naps, and for older children a quiet rest period is arranged. Rest helps the child recover and cope with the day’s activities.
Small group activities
Part of the day children work in smaller groups. In small groups each child gets more time to participate, be heard and practise new skills in a safe environment.
Social skills and togetherness
In early childhood education and care children practise how to act together with others. Children learn, for example, to wait, to listen, to express feelings and to resolve conflicts. Secure relationships are an important part of the child’s wellbeing.
Participation
Children are encouraged to share their thoughts, wishes and ideas. They get to influence activities according to their age. When a child is listened to, they feel like an important part of the group.
End of the day
At the end of the day the child takes part in play and other pleasant activities while waiting to go home. During pickup, the child’s day is reviewed and staff inform the guardian about the child’s day and any important matters. Before leaving the child says goodbye to the staff, after which the staff member can record that the child has left for home. Open cooperation between home and early childhood education and care supports the child’s wellbeing, sense of security and smooth everyday life.
Example of a daily rhythm
- Arrival and morning play
- Breakfast (if needed)
- Play and guided activities
- Outdoor play
- Lunch
- Rest or quiet time
- Afternoon play, small group activities and outdoor play
- Snack
- Going home
The exact daily rhythm may vary depending on the daycare, the group of children and the children’s ages.