Finland’s new maternity package adds more items and a promised ball

Finland’s new maternity package contains more products after the value of the maternity grant rose from 170 euros to 210 euros this year, Yle reports. The Social Insurance Institution of Finland, known as Kela, says distribution of the new package has begun.

The package includes baby clothes, accessories and supplies, along with several muslin cloths, a blanket, a sleeping bag, a book, nail scissors and a toothbrush. Lubricant and a pack of condoms have also returned after being left out of last year’s package.

A soft ball promised by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s government is included. The ball has a fabric surface, bright colours and pictures of animals and fruit. Kela says it is intended to support interaction between parents and babies and encourage families to spend time doing things together.

The ball was included in the government’s Suomi liikkeelle programme in 2023, which aimed to increase physical activity across all age groups. The box features a peach-coloured space design by illustrator Eveliina Muotkavaara. Its annual illustration is also new. Parents can choose a cash grant worth 210 euros instead of the package.