In this project of Stichting Kinderpostzegels (www.kinderpostzegels.nl) seven after school centers for children from multi-problem families were established in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Each center can accommodate 30-60 children aged 7 to 14.
ICDI was involved from the beginning in design of the innovative Nest model, a kind of after school center where children at risk receive much needed socio-emotional support. We gave advice, provided several trainings, and did research into impact of the centers on the well-being of the children. We also developed the international handbook on the use of the Nest model.
Description
The Overall Objective was the Improvement of the quality of life and developmental opportunities for children from multi-problem families in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Specific Objective was the provision of high quality and child focussed support for children from multi-problem families through establishment of sustainable after school centres in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In the end seven Nest centers were established throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina in regions with Serbia, Bosniak and Croat populations. Around 400 children from multi-problem families continue to benefit from these centers on a yearly basis.
ICDI has been involved from the beginning in the development of this project, and has had an advisory role during implementation. We also delivered several trainings on a range of subjects (child development, intervision, child rights, etc.) to staff of the centers. We have also helped develop a selection criteria checklist and a format for individual action plans for the children. ICDI also did the first research into impact of the centers on the well-being of the children.
