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Afternoon activities for schoolchildren

In Finland, school days often end quite early compared to many other countries – typically around noon for younger pupils. To support families and provide children with a safe and engaging environment after school, municipalities organize afternoon activities for primary school children.

The application period for afternoon activities for the 2026–2027 school year is 20 March to 7 April 2026.

Afternoon activities in Lahti will primarily be offered to first-grade pupils. However, children in grades 1–2 and pupils from other grades who have a special support decision can also apply.
Key details:

  • Afternoon activities take place on school days only.
  • Sessions last 4 hours per day, usually from 12:00 to 16:00.
  • Activities are organized at schools or nearby facilities.
  • There is no afternoon program during school holidays or on Saturday school days.

The aim of afternoon activities offer children safe and planned leisure activities. Activities include playing, exercising, going outside and eating a snack.  hand skills, music, expressive arts, physical education, yard and traditional games and ball games. Children also have the opportunity to rest and do homework. Activities support the child’s overall well-being and the educational work of home and school.

Applying for Afternoon Activities from 20 March to 7 April 2026

The main application period for afternoon activities is from 20 March to 7 April 2026. However, applications can be submitted throughout the school year. After the application period, applications are considered in the order they are received, and children can join the activities if there is space in the group. After the application period, you can apply for afternoon activities with a paper application which should be returned to the address of the service provider from whom you are seeking a place for afternoon activities. More information about afternoon activities (in Finnish) can be found on the City of Lahti’s website Iltapäivätoiminta.