Virtual tour to the Finnish kindergarten

Summary

This virtual tour of a Finnish kindergarten highlights key features of the learning environment. It emphasizes the importance of outdoor play, where children go outside twice a day regardless of the weather, and the role of the yard as a learning space. The script also explores how Finnish kindergartens use picture cards to visualize daily activities, meal times as essential parts of the day, and the importance of free play. Teachers foster learning through play, organizing toys by themes, and focusing on physical activity, hygiene, and potty training as integral parts of early education.

Takeaways

• 😀 Finnish kindergartens emphasize outdoor play, with children going outside twice a day in all weather conditions.
• 😀 The yard is an integral part of the learning environment, and special equipment is available for drying and cleaning outdoor clothing.
• 😀 Picture cards are commonly used in Finnish kindergartens to visualize the day's schedule and help children orient themselves to the next activity.
• 😀 Mealtime, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks, is a significant part of the day, and children are given individual spaces to eat and feel safe.
• 😀 Each child has their own puppet or comfort item, which helps them feel secure and encourages self-care.
• 😀 Finnish kindergartens incorporate free play as a key educational activity, with teachers guiding learning through play.
• 😀 Toys in kindergartens are often organized in one place, allowing teachers to select them based on the theme of the week or the children's interests.
• 😀 Movement is a central part of the day, with children recommended to engage in at least three hours of physical activity, beyond just physical education classes.
• 😀 The learning environment is designed to stimulate physical activity, encouraging children to move, explore, and stay active.
• 😀 Potty training and hygiene education are essential components of the kindergarten experience, with the toilet also serving as a learning space.

Q & A

What is a key feature of Finnish kindergartens in terms of outdoor activities?

Children in Finnish kindergartens go outside twice a day, regardless of the weather. The outdoor yard is considered an important part of the learning environment.

Why is the lobby of Finnish kindergartens equipped with cleaning and drying facilities?

The lobby has equipment to clean and dry children's outdoor clothes, reflecting the importance of outdoor activities and ensuring children are comfortable when transitioning between indoors and outdoors.

What is the purpose of picture cards in Finnish kindergartens?

Picture cards are used to visualize the day's schedule and help children understand what activities are coming next. They are also used to clarify rules and help children make decisions about the next activity.

How are mealtimes structured in Finnish kindergartens?

Children eat breakfast, lunch, and snacks in the kindergarten, and mealtime is considered an important part of their day. It provides a sense of safety, with each child having their own designated seat or space.

Why do children in Finnish kindergartens have their own personal belongings like a puppet?

Personal belongings, like a puppet, help children feel safe and secure. This individual ownership fosters responsibility and comfort during their time at the kindergarten.

How do Finnish kindergartens promote free play?

Free play is a central activity in Finnish kindergartens. Educators use this time to guide learning and development, capitalizing on children's natural interests and curiosity.

How are toys and materials organized in Finnish kindergartens?

Toys and materials are typically stored in one place, from where teachers can select the toys for the day or week based on children's interests or developmental needs. This approach allows for flexible learning opportunities.

How does physical activity play a role in Finnish kindergartens?

Physical activity is emphasized, with a recommendation that children move for at least three hours a day. The learning environment is designed to stimulate movement and physical engagement, not just during PE classes, but throughout the day.

What role does potty training and hygiene education play in Finnish kindergartens?

Potty training and hygiene education are important aspects of the daily routine in Finnish kindergartens. The toilet area itself can also be used as a learning environment for these skills.

How do teachers use free play to enhance children's development in Finnish kindergartens?

Teachers use free play not just as a recreational activity, but as an opportunity to teach and guide children in various areas, such as social skills, problem-solving, and physical development, by observing and interacting during play.