How do kindergartens work in Sweden?

There are public and private kindergartens in Sweden (but both are paid). Although there are various social programs, discount systems (for the second, third child). And when a child turns 3, they get 525 free hours of kindergarten every year. Usually, preschool education begins at the age of 3 (if the parents wish, it is possible from one year). The number of children in groups ranges from 15 to 20 people, but small groups (less than 10 children) are quite common.

The educational process is provided by 3 educators. In Swedish gardens, they do not teach reading and counting, they do not practice tasks for accelerated intellectual development. If the child is interested in numbers or letters, the teacher will explain to him, however, special training in reading or counting is not practiced in kindergartens. On the other hand, children spend a lot of time outside (even sleeping under favorable weather conditions). Children with special needs attend groups with other children.

But, if the child finds it difficult to serve himself or needs supervision, an assistant educator is added to the group. There are no beds in the groups (only mattresses and blankets), because sleeping in the Swedish gardens is optional. During the quiet hour, children are read fairy tales (some may doze off), they draw, create crafts together with the teacher. “Swedish upbringing is based on the principle” “A child must have a childhood.”

Everything is done here so that children grow up healthy, learn to be friends, respect and take care of each other. ” – Ekaterina Kaed, mother of two children, shares her impressions of the Swedish garden. At 6 years old, parents can send their child to kindergarten, where for one year the children will be preparing for school. It should be noted that training in the kindergarten is not compulsory, it is attended by request. But at the age of 7, children must go to school.