Nordic expert seminar on the economic significance of qualitative early childhood education

Opening by Minister of Education and Children Ásmundur Einar Daðason, Iceland 

Economics behind the ECEC

• Miriam Wüst, Associate Professor, Copenhagen university/Department of Economics: What do (and don’t) we know about the causal effects of early childhood education? An overview of economic research from the Nordic countries
• Thomas van Huizen, Associate Professor, Utrecht University School of Economics, on the international perspective on how to assess the importance of quality preschool from a socio-economic perspectiv 
• Jenný Dagbjört Gunnarsdóttir, School Counselor, Hafnarfjörður municipality: How to secure the quality of preschools – perspective from municipalities

Qualitative ECEC

• Matti Sarvimäki, Associate Professor, Aalto university/Department of Economics: Finland’s preschool experiment
• Veslemøy Rydland, Professor, University of Oslo/Department of education: Language stimulation for children with another language background and inclusion

Perspective on families

• Ann-Zofie Duvander, Professor, Stockholm university/Department of Sociology: What, when and who? Types of ECEC, when children start and potential consequences of differentials in participation at various ages
• Tuomas Kosonen, Professor, VATT institute for economic research: Paying moms to stay home; short and long run effects on parents and children

Facilitator: Jani Erola, Professor, University of Turku

The seminar provides a comprehensive exploration of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) from economic, individual, family, and societal angles. Participants will examine its cost-effectiveness, individual benefits for children, positive impacts on families and communities, and its potential for promoting social equity. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, the seminar offers a well-rounded understanding of the multifaceted advantages of ECEC.

The seminar will also be streamed, so online participation is possible.

Participation deadline: 15.9.2023