In early childhood education and care
It is important that the staff in early childhood education and care know about the tradition of female genital mutilation and its prevention as well as receive relevant training.
Tips for the professionals in early childhood education and care
- Start prevention already before concerns over a girl’s FGM are raised.
- Bring up FGM for example in discussions about the child’s ECEC plan with parents or guardian.
- Use a culturally sensitive work approach.
- Tell the parents or guardian about the health harms resulting from FGM.
- Explain that FGM is prohibited by the Criminal Code of Finland.
- Remind parents or guardian that you have an obligation to submit a child protection notification and to notify the police if there is any suspicion of FGM.
- Explain that all children are entitled to physical integrity, health and life.
- Make a record of the conversations that take place.
Early childhood education and care should act in multiprofessional co-operation with maternity and child health clinics and, where necessary, with child welfare authorities in order to prevent FGM.
The management must ensure that the staff has the necessary skills and support to engage in discussions about FGM.
Preventing FGM is part of the work to prevent domestic violence and is, thus, included in the municipality's welfare plan for children and young people. The practices in early childhood education and care on how to prevent FGM and approach the subject with clients are decided locally.
