Science-oriented Pilke Pikkukarhu opened in a new log-built daycare centre in Myyrmäki, Vantaa

Pilke’s science-oriented daycare centre Pikkukarhu opened in a brand-new log building on Ojahaanpolku Street in the Vantaa district of Myyrmäki in August 2018. Pikkukarhu provides high-quality child-centred early childhood education and care for children aged 0–5 years at a warm-spirited daycare centre with 75 daycare places.

The natural science-orientation has been recorded in the daycare centre’s early childhood education and care curriculum, and it is implemented in various ways in the daycare centre’s everyday operation. For example, the play facilities are designed in a way that motivates and encourages exploration and experimentation. The daycare centre is equipped with a scientific play space where the young professors can conduct their studies with pipettes, loupes, test tubes and magnifying glasses among other fascinating instruments. Children’s play, creativity and the use of the senses are great platforms for practising scientific thinking that develops children’s memory and learning skills. At the science-oriented daycare centre, we find it important that the children learn to discover and explore and are provided with experiences of success – without forgetting the significance of play. The activities are planned taking account of the children’s ages, interests and safe courses of action. We emphasise wondering and exploring phenomena together with the children.

In the ecological log building, children and early childhood educators get to enjoy fresh indoor air, good acoustics and the calm, peaceful atmosphere created by solid wood elements.