Medication for children in early childhood education and care
In early childhood education and care, only medicines prescribed by a doctor, the administration of which is essential for the child’s care during the day, may be given and dosed. The implementation of medication is based on cooperation between guardians, early childhood education and care staff, and healthcare professionals. An individual medication plan is drawn up for the child in early childhood education and care, which outlines the implementation of medication, responsibilities, and operating procedures.
The aim for a child requiring medication is to participate safely and equally in early childhood education and care according to their individual health needs. To ensure safe medication, the competence, induction, and responsibilities of employees involved in medication are defined according to the medication plan. Medication implemented in early childhood education and care is based on the Kanta-Häme Wellbeing Services County’s early childhood education and care medication plan (valid from 1 August 2026).
A child’s medication plan must always be completed when a child requires medication during an early childhood education and care day. Medications are classified as long-term medications, short-term medications, and as-needed medications (e.g., seizure medications). The medication plan is completed when the child starts care. You can print and pre-fill the form in advance.
If your child requires medication in early childhood education and care, please remember to:
Complete the child-specific medication plan and submit it to the early childhood education and care facility before medication begins.
Deliver the necessary medicines to the early childhood education and care facility in their original packaging, including up-to-date medication and treatment instructions.
Report all changes without delay regarding the child’s medication or health status.
Familiarise staff, if necessary, with specific issues related to the child’s illness, treatment procedures, or medication administration.
Provide any necessary medical supplies in addition to medicines.
Collect expired or unused medicines and medical supplies and ensure their proper disposal.
