After nearly four years of providing childcare services to a total of 31 children from 23 families, The Finland Community Nature Childcare (FCNC) will be closing its current program. In early October, enrollment dropped to three children, with one family planning to move due to a lack of housing, and the difficult decision was made to close the current operation. The organization cites children aging out/entering kindergarten, lack of housing, and economic contraction as being the major factors in the drop in enrollment over the past six months.
The change is a sad one for many, with the house and yard holding both impactful memories of good times and future possibilities for the social and economic development of Finland and the surrounding area. Finland is not alone in this situation; childcare centers across the region and the state are struggling to stay in business, and are up against challenges such as low enrollment, high staff turnover, and the ability to meet children’s individualized needs. The situation is complex and is receiving attention and support from many quarters. As you read this article, there are new regional efforts underway. FCNC will participate in these, representing the area of Finland, with their unique community’s needs as observed first-hand over the past four years. When considering the future, it seems likely that the community of Finland will need childcare again if issues such as affordable housing are addressed and families wish to remain in the area or move to the area.
For the present, the Finland Community Nature Childcare remains committed to serving local families. Although enrollment has been lower than hoped, the group is looking at alternative opportunities to support children and families across the region, keeping in line with their mission statement: “To provide an environment for children that supports the development of the whole self by creating programs that facilitate child-inspired play and learning experiences in a simple, safe setting founded in the natural world.” During the duration of the full-service childcare, the staff have focused on curating skills in their specialized approach, which include open-ended play in natural environments, emergent curriculum, and emotionally responsive practices. The organization is now considering how to continue to offer these strengths to the community through different avenues. Among the possibilities are running a summer program in 2026, offering free weekly programming for preschool children and their families, hosting events for parents and child care providers, and offering supplemental services and/or staff to other childcares in the area. If you have ideas or would like to offer support, you can connect with the Director, Elli King, at 218-220-8997.
FCNC has received generous support as a start-up and for the duration of its four-year operation. The support and the services provided have made a real, impactful, and lasting effect on Finland families and the future of the community. FCNC acknowledges all of their partners with heartfelt thanks: Lake County, the State of Minnesota, the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation, Boreal Waters Community Foundation, the Northland Foundation, the Tracy Family Foundation, Crystal Bay Township, the North Shore Collaborative Fund, Cooperative Light and Power Community Grants, Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, the Finland Snowmobile Club, Baptism River Community Church, the American Endowment Fund, several generous local individuals, and their committed and dependable volunteers.
The message FCNC would like to share with you is: “We care deeply about the children of our community, who are our future! We look forward to the next form we can find to offer our heartfelt, enriching approach to the children and families of our region.” Stay posted throughout 2026, and contact FCNC if you would like to get involved. finlandchildcare@gmail.com or 218-220-8997.
