Learning from Practice: CHAVORE Partners Gather in Međimurje for Peer Learning Activity

In May 2026, partners and guests gathered in Međimurje, Croatia, for a two-day Peer Learning Activity (PLA) as part of the CHAVORE project. Bringing together consortium partners, members of the Romani Early Years Network (REYN), and other early childhood professionals, the event created a space to reflect on learning, exchange experiences, and see how the project's work is being translated into practice with children and families.

Hosted by the Open Academy Step by Step (OASBS), the PLA welcomed participants from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and other countries in the region. The event combined reflection, dialogue, and study visits to services supporting Roma children and families.

Reflecting on Children's and Families'Needs

The first day focused on the CHAVORE journey so far. Participants explored the project's approach to understanding and responding to the needs of children, caregivers, and practitioners, drawing on insights gathered through the project's extensive mapping process.

These discussions highlighted both the complexity and importance of listening to children's voices and understanding the realities facing families and professionals working in diverse and often challenging contexts. For many participants, the opportunity to connect this ground work with what they are experiencing in practice was particularly meaningful.

As one participant reflected, "After all the mapping of needs (of children, caregivers, and practitioners), training, and mentoring, we now get to see how CHAVORE comes to life in the daily practice of kindergartens and Play Hubs, in the workshops with parents and in the overall life of the community."

Learning from Practice

The PLA gave participants the opportunity to observe CHAVORE’s implementation firsthand through a series of study visits. On day two, participants visited the Play Hub in Pribislavec, a kindergarten and preschool in Orehovica, and a kindergarten and Play Hub in Kuršanec. These settings showcased different approaches to supporting young children and families, while also reflecting the unique realities of the communities they serve.

Participants met practitioners working directly with children and parents, observed activities, and discussed both achievements and ongoing challenges. They witnessed examples of inclusive services, strong partnerships with families, and community-based approaches that promote children's wellbeing and development in action.

The visits also highlighted the importance of long-term investment in local communities. One participant noted,"It was very inspiring to see how OASBS and local REYN members are engaged and involved in the Međimurje community, making visible changes in services for Roma children and families."

Looking Ahead

The PLA concluded with a final reflection session, where participants shared key learnings and discussed opportunities for future collaboration. Conversations focused on how the project's resources can continue to be strengthened and adapted based on implementation experiences.

The event also reinforced the growing recognition of mental health and wellbeing as essential aspects of early childhood development. As another participant reflected, "Mental health[...] of the youngest children in the most vulnerable positions, is no longer an untapped area filled with prejudices or a scarcity of culturally informed resources."

By bringing together practitioners, partners, and community representatives, the PLA offered a valuable opportunity to learn from practice, celebrate progress, and continue building more responsive support systems for Roma children and their families.

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