LSS Vilniaus miesto filialas "Padek pritapti"

The idea of the children and youth center "Padek pritapti" (Help to Fit) evolves from the social activism and devoted volunteering when back in 2009 the group of volunteers started to work with Roma children living in Kirtimai and Naujininkai district (a district in Vilnius which is the most densely inhabited area by Roma). This initiative soon after grew into a formal institution - an after-school day care center for children of different nationalities with an aim to reflect on how to successfully integrate young people, especially of Roma origin, into society, ensure a stronger connection between children and school, and engage the children of the Naujininkai community. Currently there are 40 children regularly visiting the day care center. The aim of the day center is to provide children from the Roma and Naujininkai community with opportunities to develop, interact and collaborate through non-formal education activities. We have created a multicultural environment where children of different nationalities meet after school. We are focused on group activities when children strive for dialogue, try to get to know each other, break existing stereotypes, and build self-confidence and trust. The activities of the day center are based on the fundamental issues the children and youth are facing each day. Children lack social skills which could catalyze self-reflection and confidence to meet the Other. Therefore, much attention is paid to children's feelings, emotional well-being and respect. There is also a lack of hygiene skills, so we are learning the basics of healthy living and personal body care. We pay a lot of attention to the development of cognitive skills and linguistic skills, especially learning Lithuanian and English language (mother tongue of most of the children is Romany or Russian). We are constantly searching for interesting methods of involvement and self-perception. One of the most successful methods of self-reflection and self-discovery is art. We use drawing, dancing, photography and other techniques which allow children to express themselves and share their personal story.