Turku daycares ban staff from consuming junk food in front of children

Turku has asked asked childhood education staff to choose personal meals that do not cause portion envy among the children.

This naturally includes junk food like pizza, chips, sweet cakes, and pastries. However, even with healthy food, adults should not eat in front of children because that can also cause portion envy.

The guidance was issued following discussions in a management team meeting in September. Officials received inquiries from various parties regarding what staff consume while supervising young learners.

Daycare employees in Finland do not have a dedicated lunch break. Instead, staff participate in supervisory dining where they eat alongside children as part of the daily pedagogical routine.

Early Childhood Education Director Vesa Kulmala noted that these meal moments serve as educational settings. Staff are expected to set a positive example for the children present.

The new instructions specifically prohibit energy drinks and similar beverages in spaces used by children. For other snacks deemed unsuitable in front of children, employees can arrange to eat outside the group with their immediate supervisor.

Under Finnish collective agreements, workers are entitled to time for a quick meal without disrupting work tasks. This absence typically lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, alongside a standard ten-minute coffee break.

In some daycares, staff members bring their own food due to dietary or health reasons. Accommodations are made, for instance, when institutional food causes stomach or other issues for employees.

Finland’s childcare system is considered very well-organized, with a special focus on children’s mental development and equality.