Early childhood education
Each preschool is unique. Some focus on communication, reading, or writing and others focus on mathematics, nature, and environmental issues. Here you can find information about the daily operations of preschools and various practical matters such as transfers between schools and changes in care hours.
Preschool opening hours
City-run preschools are open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The preschool day ends at 4:30 p,m. so staff can leave on time. Please pick up your child a few minutes before closing time so the day ends calmly for both your child and our staff.
Preschools close for 20 days during summer break, six planning days throughout the winter, and offer optional care days during Christmas break, primary school winter breaks, and the week leading up to Easter.
Changing the length of stay at preschool
Circumstances sometimes change – that's why you can apply to change the length of stay for your child. You apply for a change in the length of stay through Vala. Please note that the change will always take effect on the 1st or 15th of each month, and the notice period to give up preschool placement is one month.
Preschool parent cooperation
Targeted efforts are underway to increase parent consultation and strengthen their involvement in early childhood education. All Reykjavík City preschools have parent associations and parent councils.
Transfers between preschools
Applications for transfers between city preschools are done online. Keep in mind that it's best to apply for a transfer before the end of February, as most preschool places for the fall are allocated in March.
Status on the waiting list if the child gets a spot in a private preschool
As soon as children start at a private preschool, they are removed from the City's waiting list. If you want to remain on the City's waiting list, you must apply for a transfer.
Preschool meals
- In preschool, children receive breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks. So, they usually don't need to bring their own food. Some preschools post the daily menu in the Vala app.
- If a child cannot eat certain food due to intolerance, allergies, or religious reasons, it’s essential to inform early childhood education staff.
- When signing the preschool stay agreement, parents confirm with the principal which meals are included in the preschool fees.
Nursery divisions
Several City preschools have nursery divisions specializing in educating 1-year-olds. They have better conditions for caring for the youngest preschool children, such as heated floors, better changing facilities, and a designated playground. Enrollment for preschools with nursery divisions is done in the same way as for other schools, in order of age.
Support
Children can receive special support or special education in preschools based on assessment by a specialist or diagnostic professional. The main goal of special education is to ensure equal rights for children in the preschool environment, regardless of physical and mental abilities.
Multicultural early childhood education
Many children in the City's preschools are of foreign origin. This diversity is invaluable as the contributions of children and parents of foreign origin enrich preschool activities and provide opportunities to learn about diverse cultures and languages.
How can we help?
Do you need further assistance or didn't find what you were looking for? The City Service Center can help you by phone at 411 1111, via live chat, and through email at innritun.leikskolar@reykjavik.is.
What do you want to explore next?
- Preschool enrollment All about the enrollment process.
- Starting preschool Preschools are fun!
- Fees and subsidies How much does preschool cost?
- Preschool fee discounts Do you qualify for a discount?
- Preschool employment Do you want to be a role model and create lasting memories?
- Transfer between preschools Are you moving?