Many young children in Rotterdam South start primary school at a disadvantage. They speak Dutch less well, have more difficulty moving, or feel insecure among other children. Various organizations want to change this together.
On July 1, the organizations agreed to do more to combat these disadvantages. This is happening in the Young Child Rotterdam-South program of National Program Rotterdam South. Link opens an external page (NPRZ). This involves primary schools, childcare institutions, welfare organizations, the Sports Company, cultural institutions, and the municipality.
Free Toddler Care
One of the plans is to offer free childcare for toddler groups in some neighborhoods. Currently, few parents in South take advantage of this. Toddlers can learn a lot in childcare. They get used to other children, learn new words, and can start more easily in group 1.
The municipality therefore wants to inform more parents about the benefits of the toddler group. This is done, for example, through the Youth and Family Center (CJG).
Young Child Coordinators
For some parents, raising children is extra difficult. This may be due to financial worries, little support, or if they do not speak the language well yet. Therefore, young child coordinators will be introduced in all neighborhoods of Feijenoord, Charlois, and IJsselmonde.
These coordinators help parents find their way. They connect with maternity care, social work, and other caregivers. The coordinators ensure that parents know where they can get help and what activities are available for parents with young children in the area.
Support from the Start
Expectant parents will also receive more help. The municipality wants young people to be well-prepared for having a child and therefore helps parents even during pregnancy. A Guide for Group 1 will also be introduced. This outlines what is useful in preparation for primary school, helping parents to better prepare their child.
Through the Strong Start program, parents receive support regarding parenting, health, work, and education. This not only improves the childs start but also the familys future.