The City of Kankaanpää has decided to introduce a new swimming benefit for preschoolers and first graders for the 2026–2027 school year. The goal is to strengthen children's swimming skills, increase water safety, and encourage families to exercise together.

According to the decision, children in the target group will receive ten free swimming sessions at the Kankaanpää swimming pool. Free admission applies to one child and one guardian when they go swimming together.

The swimming skills of children and young people have been observed to have declined nationwide in recent years. Kankaanpää wants to respond to this development by supporting learning swimming skills at an early stage. At the same time, it encourages more active use of the city's sports services.

– The swimming benefit is a concrete investment in children's well-being, safety and a sporty lifestyle. At the same time, it offers families the opportunity to do things together and supports the development of children's swimming skills at an important learning age, Director of Education Mari Fabig says.

The swimming benefit is valid from the beginning of September 2026 to the end of June 2027. The benefit can be used by preschoolers and first graders in Kankaanpää. For practical implementation, schools and daycare centers will provide the sports center's information with the names of children whose guardians have given their consent to the disclosure of information. When dealing with the swimming pool, the guardian must provide the child's name, school or daycare center, and grade. In addition, the guardian must prove their identity when requested so that the right to the benefit can be verified.

The city will monitor the use of the benefit during the first year of operation. Based on the experience gained and usage statistics, the effectiveness of the operation will be assessed and a decision will be made on its possible continuation.

The Culture and Leisure Committee approved the introduction of the swimming benefit at its meeting on May 21, 2026.

Additional information

Mari Fabig, Director of Education, City of Kankaanpää, 044 577 5280, [email protected]

Ilari Köykkä, Wellbeing and Sports Coordinator, City of Kankaanpää, 044 577 2773,  [email protected]