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Infancy and childhood

The birth of a child is a joyful occasion. However, when the child has special needs, parents may experience feelings of worry and anxiety. This is why it is important to receive first information on the child's situation and the forms of support available to families.  

You can find information on the monitoring the child's health care and development, the services provided by the City, the support available for pre-primary education and compulsory education, and the benefits and rehabilitation available from Kela. 

Image: Kaisa Sunimento

On this site

First information on a child’s special needs
Whether a child has special needs present at birth or they manifest as the child grows older, parents often have a great need for information. Well-presented first information helps in understanding the new situation.
Monitoring of a child’s health and development
The growth and development of all children are monitored at the child health clinic. Special health care services are available at the HUS New Children's Hospital.
Social and disability services for children and families
Families with a child with a severe illness or disability may need additional help. You can get support from the social and disability services for families with children if, for example, your child falls ill, or you are exhausted as a parent.
Early childhood education services for children under school age
Every child has the right to early childhood education. Early childhood education for a disabled or sick child can be arranged in an ordinary daycare centre, family daycare, or a special needs daycare centre.
Pre-primary education and basic education
Most children start pre-primary education at the age of 6 . It is possible for your child to start their pre-primary education a year earlier. Primary education usually starts at the age of seven, but it can also start a year later.
Kela benefits and rehabilitation for families with children
There are many types of support available for families with children. Kela provides both financial assistance and access to rehabilitation. You can schedule a phone call with an expert from Kela if you have questions about the benefits and services.

External resources

Families with children (Kela)
Information on support for families with children.
If a child gets ill (Kela)
Information on Kela’s support for children with an illness or disability.
Disability benefits (Kela)
Information on Kela's support and services for people with a long-term disability or illness.