Language-, culture- and religion pre-school education and care

Language-, culture- and religion pre-school education and teaching Finnish as a second language (S2)

Kuopio’s early childhood education and pre-school education strengthens the child’s linguistic, cultural and religious identity and takes into account the child’s equal opportunity to learn and participate in activities. A safe atmosphere and positive interaction that respects diversity strengthen children’s sense of belonging and intercultural interaction.

Children’s learning of the Finnish language is supported in all interaction situations. Finnish as a second language (S2) is taught to all children whose mother tongue(s) is/are not Finnish. S2 is taught through play, songs, reading, games, exploration and working together in the child’s own group. S2 teaching includes vocabulary, Finnish language structures and language use skills.

Language and culture teachers work to support staff, consult and guide staff on bilingual and multilingual children’s issues, and strengthen existing language, culture and belief awareness in early childhood education.