Not only do most Finnish moms work, many do so full time. The government has actively tried to promote work-life balance for families, and encourages men in particular to play a larger role in parenting.
A high-quality daycare system, often run by local municipalities, is available to children under seven years old, with fees varying depending on family size and income. Pre-school education for six-year-olds is free.
Maternity leave lasts about 18 weeks, and an additional 26 weeks of leave can be shared between parents. Parents who decide not to use daycare are also offered a monthly allowance to care for a child up until age three, and their job remains protected in the meantime.
Parents also have the right to reduce their work hours until their child's second year in school.
