In afternoon activities, children play, move, and spend time outdoors. They interact with other children and make new friends. Photo: Maija Astikainen
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Applications for afternoon activities for the 2025–2026 school year in Helsinki open on 17 March and close on 16 April. The programme is available for first- and second-grade students, as well as pupils receiving special support. Every child who applies during the application period will be offered a place.
The activities provide a safe and structured environment where children can play, move, and spend time outdoors with friends after school. A nutritious snack is included in the daily programme.
“There’s lots of fun things to do!” said seven-year-old Ava, who has participated in the activities.
“The most important aspect is doing things together with friends. Guided activities in a safe environment support children’s well-being,” said Tarja Tapper, head of leisure services for basic education at the City of Helsinki.
Parents have given high ratings to the quality of the programme, which helps ease family routines. In a 2024 customer satisfaction survey for basic education, afternoon activities received excellent feedback. The programme is subject to a fee.
Applications should be submitted through Wilma, the system used for managing school-related matters. Parents of children starting school in autumn who do not yet have a Wilma account can create one via Suomi.fi identification from 17 March. Those who already use Wilma can add their child to their existing profile.
Instructions for creating a Wilma account are available at hel.fi/wilma. Parents who cannot apply through Wilma can submit a PDF application form, with details available at hel.fi/iltapaivatoiminta.
Activities take place in schools and nearby locations across the city, with around 250 sites offering the service. Sessions run until either 16:00 or 17:00, depending on the location. Each year, approximately 11,000 children participate in the programme. If a child cannot be placed in their preferred location, an alternative in the same area will be offered.
Fees for the programme include snacks and insurance. The monthly cost is €100 for activities ending at 16:00 and €120 for those continuing until 17:00. Parents can apply for fee reductions or exemptions based on income.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
