Home in Nature daycare centre Sotkankoto

Staying warm in a Lapp hut

Daycare centre Sotkankoto is located in the midst of a forested field scenery in the Helsinki district of Viikki. In our hilly yard, we often have a breakfast by the campfire, and in the winter, we keep ourselves warm in our Lapp hut. Following the seasonal cycle, we play in the mud, go sled sliding, explore nooks and corners, do yard chores and cut firewood.

A close relationship with nature

We reserve three mornings for forest trips every week. Regular visits to the children’s domain in Rocky Forest, Squirrel Woods, Dragonfly Rocks and Manure Hill provide exhilaratingly diverse environments for play and other outdoor activities. Our relationship with nature deepens in the children’s favourite places that are full of good memories. First we run, then tiptoe and finally gallop freely across the fields like horses!

Organic vegetarian foods and free play

Depending on the age group, our self-made organic vegetarian meals are enjoyed indoors, in the warmth of our Lapp hut or outdoors when the weather allows. Free play is paced by daily instructed group games, story times and singalongs.

At Sotkankoto, the children’s participation is connected to everyday activities, such as cutting vegetables, baking and other small chores. Small group activities and artistic work based on the children’s age enrich their world of experiences.

Small group activities pace our daily transitions and actions in a familial atmosphere where everyone is accepted and allowed to participate – an atmosphere that facilitates our educators’ goal-oriented work to support the development of each and every child.

Close cooperation with parents

Our cooperation with parents is based on daily meetings, open partnership, parents’ evenings and communal celebrations and events. We also house a registered parents’ association that provides everyone with the opportunity to contribute to the common good of Sotkankoto’s children and families.

Pioneer in nature education and international collaboration

The nature pedagogy at our daycare is recognized internationally. Visitors come from all over the world to learn from us, seeking guidance on nature-based education, compassionate interaction, and respectful communication. Our collaboration with Nagano University has continued for several years. Our daycare is also involved in an international Erasmus project, in which our staff provide training in nature education abroad.