Pre-schools

As with schools, there are a variety of options for kindergartens in Spain, and are for children between 3 and 6 years old. There are both state and private nurseries to choose from, as well as both traditional Spanish nurseries and the option of Swedish or international nurseries.

Swedish preschools in Spain are based on the Swedish education system and offer a unique approach to early childhood education. They focus on play-based learning and aim to provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for children to develop socially, emotionally and cognitively. The Swedish preschool curriculum emphasizes the importance of creativity, independence and curiosity and encourages children to explore and learn through play and hands-on activities. There is a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and nature, with many schools having outdoor playgrounds and gardens that are used as an extension of the classroom. This approach builds on the Swedish principle of ‘friluftsliv’ meaning ‘free air life’ and encourages children to spend time outdoors and develop a connection with nature.

In terms of language, most Swedish preschools in Spain offer multilingual education, with lessons in Swedish, Spanish and English. This allows children to become fluent in several languages, which is an important skill for their future education and career opportunities. However, it may be more appropriate to choose an international preschool if you want more emphasis on integrating children into other languages, as Swedish preschools exist to focus on the Swedish language and curriculum.

Most schools in Spain also offer preschool, unlike in Sweden where preschools and schools are usually separated.