Project TOY for Participation aims to involve children in decision-making processes through play. It is implemented by the NGO "Labor and Health Social Initiatives" in cooperation with international partners and co-funded by the European Union.
As part of the project, children participate in various play activities that help them:
-
understand decision-making processes;
-
develop communication and leadership skills;
-
to form an active civic position.
The project also supports the development of an inclusive society, where every child can express their opinion and be heard, contributing to the creation of a more just and equal society.
Thanks to TOY for Participation, children get the opportunity not only to play, but also to master important life skills that will be useful to them in the future.
The purpose of the project
Promote the constructive participation of children aged 0 to 10 years from vulnerable groups in the local context by strengthening the role of play hubs "TOY4Inclusion" as platforms for civic education, engagement, and community transformation.
The project develops specific educational and practical modules to complement the regular activities of play centers, targeting children aged 0-10 and their caregivers. The main focus is on developing a concept and toolkit for the participation of young children as civic agents of change in the community. This can be applied in formal and informal preschool institutions, as well as in public spaces at the municipal level.
Short-term results
-
Raising awareness among children and families about children's rights, developing confidence in expressing one's own opinion, a sense of belonging and self-respect, especially among girls and children from vulnerable groups (Roma, refugees, children with disabilities).
-
Strengthening the role of families and educators in creating an enabling and gender-sensitive environment for the democratic participation of young children.
-
Deepening the knowledge of Play Hub educators, staff, and volunteers regarding the full participation of children of different ages (0–3, 3–6, 7–10 years old).
-
Expanding the skills of educators in supporting the active involvement of girls in preschool education and community life.
-
Increasing access of partner organizations and local authorities to resources and knowledge about meaningful children's participation.
-
Creating a national and international community of practitioners on early childhood participation in play centers.
Medium-term results
-
Widespread implementation of the approach TOYXNUMXParticipation" in all existing play hubs.
-
Integrating the approach into formal and informal early childhood education institutions, local authorities and partner organizations.
-
Implementing participatory principles that promote gender equality in decision-making processes.
-
Ensuring greater participation of girls and women in public life and leadership roles.
Long-term results
-
Implementing the principles of child participation in community engagement and decision-making processes.
-
Training courses on constructive participation of children are integrated into professional development programs for teachers and paraprofessionals working in formal and informal preschool education institutions.
-
Spreading a culture of children's participation in decision-making at community level across the EU.
What we do
We promote the idea of children's participation in decision-making processes, demonstrating its effectiveness in play centers Play Hub – safe and inclusive spaces for children and families. We provide tools, resources, and training for professionals and families, creating a culture that values children’s diverse voices and agency.
A central element is the development of a toolkit for meaningful child participation in decision-making that helps communities create an environment conducive to child development and civic engagement.
Why we do it
Children have the right to express their views on matters affecting them (Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, 1989). This right is supported by The EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child.
Early involvement of children in decision-making processes promotes their social, emotional and cognitive development, fosters a sense of belonging and voice, and strengthens community cohesion.
How we do it
Participation of children aged 0–10 occurs at different levels:
-
Daily solutions: choosing games, solving spatial or everyday problems.
-
Group solutions: conflict resolution, setting rules, and sharing stories.
-
Contribution to the community: involvement in parks, schools, transportation, and safety issues.
Children’s participation is age-appropriate through play, drawing, movement, silence or words, shaped by the relationships and environment of the Play Hub. We ensure that participation is inclusive, age-appropriate and effective.
An intersectoral approach brings together social services, government agencies, and community organizations to support children and families and develop long-term cohesion and community engagement.
Partners and outreach
The project is being implemented 11 partners from 9 European countries, at least 40 play centers participate in piloting the methodology.
The key partner of the NGO "Labor and Health Social Initiatives" is a Dutch organization International Child Development Initiatives (ICDI).
More details about the project: TOY for Participation
.jpg)