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Family life in Lahti

If you have moved to Lahti with your family, or plan to start a family here, the city offers many services and activities to support everyday life. Read more!

What you should know about family-related services in Lahti

If you have moved to Lahti with your family, or plan to start a family here, the city offers many services and activities to support everyday life. The City of Lahti and the Wellbeing Services County of Päijät‑Häme provide a wide range of services for children, young people, adults, and older people. These services support families with children, family well-being, and different stages of life.

Many of the services are part of the public system and are available to residents living in the area. They may work differently from services in your home country, so it is useful to know what support is available and how to access it.

 

Parental leave

In Finland, parental leave allows parents to spend time with their newborn and support family life. This system may be different from what you are used to in your home country.

Finland offers a parental leave period of about 14 months in total. Both parents can take parental leave and share childcare responsibilities.

Employed parents can receive parental allowance for 320 working days. These days are usually divided fairly equally between the two parents. In addition, the parent who gives birth is entitled to up to 40 days of pregnancy leave before the baby is born.

Parental leave and benefits are part of the Finnish social security system and are managed by Kela. The rules can feel complex at first, so it is a good idea to check your rights and options early.

Pregnancy and childbirth services

In Finland, pregnancy and childbirth services are designed to support both parents and the child. Expectant and new parents receive support through local maternity and child health clinics, called neuvola in Finnish. These clinics offer guidance on pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for a newborn. They also provide mental health support before and after the birth.

Interpretation services are available during childbirth if needed. Healthcare for children is free until the age of 15. Families with permanent residence in Finland are also entitled to support when a child is born. This includes either a maternity grant or the well‑known maternity package, which contains essential items for the baby.

Healthcare services for families and children

If your child is registered as a resident in a Finnish municipality, they are entitled to free public healthcare. Parents can stay at home to care for a sick child for up to four days. This right depends on workplace policies and collective agreements, so it is a good idea to check this with your employer. In the Päijät‑Häme area, the Wellbeing Services County of Päijät‑Häme provides healthcare, social services, and emergency services for families. Children’s health is monitored at child health clinics, called neuvola in Finnish.

These clinics:

  • follow children’s growth and development
  • provide vaccinations
  • offer free health and dental care up to the age of 15

If you do not speak Finnish or Swedish, you have the right to an interpreter. This helps ensure that language is not a barrier to accessing services.

Daycare, early childhood education and pre-primary school

In Finland, early childhood education is an important part of children’s everyday life and supports both families and children’s wellbeing. Children can attend daycare centres with different profiles, such as outdoor‑based activities or bilingual environments. Families can also choose flexible solutions, for example part‑time daycare or a combination of home care and playgroups.

Pre‑primary education usually takes place in the year before compulsory school starts. It supports children’s learning, development, and social skills. During this year, children become familiar with school routines and group activities in a safe and encouraging environment.

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