The city of Helsinki has announced its decision to discontinue preschool groups at ten daycare centers for the educational period of 2026–2027, even when the minimum class size of 14 children has been met. This decision was made by the city’s education and training committee, and the first report of these cuts was published by Helsingin Sanomat.

The rationale behind the cutbacks includes claims that other daycare facilities in the area can adequately accommodate the preschool education of the children from the groups being cut. The affected daycare centers are spread across various neighborhoods, detailing specific locations such as Ala-Malmi, Etelä-Vuosaari, and Haaga, among others. Additionally, as part of restructuring, the daycare center in Pihlajisto, named Aulanko, will be relocating and undergoing a name change.

Parents have expressed disappointment over the decision, as it directly impacts their children's early education opportunities. There are concerns that the discontinuation of these groups may lead to overcrowded classrooms in remaining facilities and could affect the quality of preschool education in Helsinki. The city's actions reflect broader trends in public service management that prioritize resource allocation, raising questions about the educational policies in place and their long-term implications for childhood education in the area.