As the COVID-19 pandemic lingers and activities continue to occur in online spaces, TOY for Inclusion is taking advantage of this movement online to showcase some of the most influential and crucial voices of the TOY for Inclusion project.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve shared updates on the work of partners involved in the project. We’ve also highlighted insights from municipalities about the TOY for Inclusion Play Hubs’ unparalleled importance in communities.

Now, we’re handing the microphone to those who are working in the Play Hubs. Listen to hear what Marija and Tina, two Local Action Team (LAT) Coordinators want you to know about their work.

Interview with Marija

Q: What do you think makes the TOY for Inclusion approach unique or different from other initiatives for young children and their families?

A: TOY for Inclusion is special and distinguishes itself from other projects, especially regarding its openness and tendency towards cooperation. We follow specific guidelines and concepts, but the whole Local Action Team (LAT) also has the freedom to create the service according to local needs. Cooperation is the key factor: cooperation of the LAT, volunteers, institutions, and, of course, families.

Q: We know that one of the most important features of the TOY for Inclusion approach is flexibility. Can you explain how your Play Hub adapted during the pandemic?

A: The City Library of Murska Sobota was closed during the pandemic, as it is a public institution. Therefore, the Play Hub had to close its doors. During these times, we remained in close contact with families through other channels and organized virtual workshops on the Facebook page of our Play Hub.

Q: Can you tell us about one reaction, feedback, or comment from a family or child attending your Play Hub that had an impact on you personally or that ‘touched your heart’?

A: There is a family of three that attends the Play Hub. The mother is from the community, and the father comes from Africa. They regularly come with their 3-year old daughter, who does not go to preschool. The mother told me how they perceive the Play Hub as a place where their daughter is accepted without any prejudices. Besides, it offers her the opportunity to meet and play with her peers.

Q: What are two things you want policy makers to know about TOY for Inclusion?

A: I would emphasize that there is respect for diversity. The Play Hub is a place without prejudices and a place where children and their parents can spend quality time together.

Q: Can you share in a few words what makes you proud to be a Local Action Team coordinator?

A: I am proud to be a part of this team because it means I am a part of a successful story, which addresses the needs of families, especially those who need some additional motivation, development, and help to succeed.

Interview with Tina

Q: What do you think makes the TOY for Inclusion approach unique or different from other initiatives for young children and their families?

A: That it is designed for children and parents. The child is in focus, but at the same time, it does not exclude parents and their time together.

Q: We know that one of the most important features of the TOY for Inclusion approach is flexibility. Can you explain how your Play Hub adapted during the pandemic?

A: During the quarantine, when we needed to close the Play Hub, we connected with members and others through our Facebook page. We still do not operate as we did before the pandemic. Families are allowed to visit us individually and borrow toys, but we must consider all restrictions.

Q: Can you tell us about one reaction, feedback, or comment from a family or child attending your Play Hub that had an impact on you personally or that ‘touched your heart’?

A: I told one story several times. One of the parents told us how pleased she is that the Play Hub provides an opportunity to enjoy time with her children without being engaged in other chores or duties. And just recently, one mother complained to me, “Tina, this is not fun anymore. When everything was still normal, we could mingle, chat, and laugh with others.” She was referring to the fact that there is less opportunity to gather with the measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Parents miss workshops, where they could be with other families.

Q: What are two things you want policy makers to know about TOY for Inclusion?

A: People are able to meet other families and go to workshops, which are always well attended. Besides, we offer high-quality services, which is a means of connecting people from different professions, countries, generations, social statuses and so on.

Q: Can you share in a few words what makes you proud to be a Local Action Team coordinator?

A: It is pleasing to see that the locals accepted the Play Hub with open arms and enjoy coming back. With time we established trust with each other, and people are happy to meet us every Wednesday.

Marija and Tina were interviewed by Mateja Mlinar, a researcher at the Educational Research Institute.