Early childhood education leaves a lasting mark – capital region municipalities encourage careers in the field

The early childhood education sector offers work that is meaningful, important and inspiring. This is the message of the new campaign created by the cities of Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen aimed at those considering a career in the field.

“Many young people and career changers are looking for work that is meaningful and makes a difference. These are integral features of early childhood education. Few professions have an impact that runs as deep and lasts as long,” says Miia Kemppi, Director of Early Education and Care at the City of Helsinki.

There will also be plenty of work in the future, as the capital region has a high birth rate. By 2030, the six largest cities alone will need thousands of new professionals, creating ample opportunities for both young people and career changers.

The cities’ joint ‘Jätä elämän mittainen jälki’ (leave a lifelong mark) campaign highlights the significant and lasting impact that early childhood education has on people’s lives.

For the campaign, a study was conducted collecting memories related to early childhood education from 302 residents of the capital region, aged 16–75, reflecting on their own experiences or those of their children or grandchildren. The study was carried out by NSight.

The responses revealed memories that have not faded over time. Respondents recalled encouraging looks, a safe space for difficult emotions, and freedom to be themselves. They described moments in which the day care staff supported the formation of first friendships, encouraged trying new and even challenging activities, and taught an appreciation for nature. These memories have stayed with them well into adulthood.

The study also asked respondents if there was anyone in their early childhood education journey they would like to thank. In open-ended responses, they expressed gratitude to numerous day care employees spanning several decades.

“A wonderfully calm, patient and understanding teacher of a group of children with special educational needs who always saw the positive qualities and strengths of my child and knew how to highlight them. Thank you, Merja, for giving faith both to us parents and to our son!” responded a 49-year-old woman from Kauniainen.

“I would like to thank a staff member who was always really encouraging, funny and simply a great role model for me and the other children at the day care centre! Thank you for being the world’s best day care teacher in 2004!” expressed a 26-year-old man from Vantaa.

These memories show that early childhood education has played an important and meaningful role in the lives of many people. The collected memories and expressions of gratitude are prominently featured in the campaign materials.

“Reading the memories is truly moving. Even after many years, people remember the early childhood education staff and the impact they had. It’s hard to think of another field where you can be such a meaningful part of someone else’s story,” says Ulla Lehtonen, Director of Early Childhood Education at the City of Espoo.

“Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing. That’s why the role of skilled professionals is so important – both now and in the future,” says Katjamaria Halme, Acting Director of Early Childhood Education at the City of Vantaa.

The joint “Jätä elämän mittainen jälki” campaign by the capital region municipalities will launch in February 2026, ahead of the joint application period. Built on collected memories, the campaign will be visible in public spaces and on social media, encouraging people to pursue studies in early childhood education.

Miia Kemppi
Director, early education and care
City of Helsinki
tel. +358 9 31043368
miia.kemppi@hel.fi