In Finland, families receive substantial support not only from the state but also from private entities
Recent studies by the Statistical Office of the European Union (Eurostat) show that the percentage of women of childbearing age who have four or more children is much higher in Finland than in other countries. According to the portal Finland.fi, following far behind Finland are the United Kingdom, Romania, and Ireland.
Maternity Benefit
Vladimir and Ekaterina Seleznev are not yet thirty. Vladimir moved to Finland as a child, studied there, and found a job. And Katya, who lived in Vyborg, married him seven years ago. They have already had three children in Finland: the eldest son is five, the youngest son is three, and the daughter is one year old. And, as the parents assure, they do not intend to stop there, as the desire to become a large family is mutual and deliberate.
"In my opinion, mutual understanding between spouses, help and support are important," says Ekaterina. "We got married in church, and that gives us confidence in each other. Moreover, Finland is a safe and prosperous country that is conducive to starting a large family."
Currently, Ekaterina is on maternity leave. At the same time, her husband's salary and maternity benefits are enough for all the necessities. "Of course, the number of children should be manageable, so that everyone gets enough love, care, and attention," Ekaterina adds. "A large family is a calling and a very responsible matter."
Benefits for Children from the Same Family
"I don't see a difference between raising two or four children," says 33-year-old Jenny Nyberg, mother of four. "When I was still pregnant with my second child, my husband and I were already thinking about a third. Then there was a feeling that someone was missing, and so Mio was born, who is now three months old."
Jenny's husband admits that he feels happiness just watching the children play. Meanwhile, the older children keep the younger ones occupied and help raise them. The hardest thing for parents is driving the children to various clubs. But grandparents step in here, gladly helping out.
"The main support for large families in Finland is the monthly child benefit," says Jenny. "The more children, the larger the amount."
Moreover, many children's clubs offer reduced fees for siblings. Such benefits exist, for example, at music and ballet schools. The same applies to many concerts, exhibitions, and events where you can buy a discounted family ticket.
Extended Parental Leave
Anu Laitinen always dreamed of a big family. As a little girl, she told her mother she would have ten children. Now, 36-year-old Anu and her 39-year-old husband have four children. According to the woman, if not for her health problems during pregnancy, the family would have even more little ones.
In Finland, you can be on parental leave for a total of about three years, and, by the way, both the mother and the father can take maternity leave. "I was a stay-at-home mom for nine years," Anu admits that sometimes it was difficult, especially because the children are close in age.
"All passing difficulties are quickly forgotten. What remains is an extraordinary feeling of joy in raising such different, unique personalities. I am very grateful to fate for each child.