Safe and individualized care: Family-type nurseries in Moldova
Family-type nurseries are no longer a distant dream. Children under three can now develop in a safe, individualized environment.
These alternative family-style care services are provided in a tailored setting at the caregivers' homes, with a maximum of five children. Those who have already opened their doors say the idea stemmed from the lack of nurseries for their own children.
Irina Avtutova established a family-style nursery six months ago in the capital, in her second apartment. By profession, she is an accountant, but has always had a special affinity for children. She adapted her home to meet the needs of the children. Thanks to a grant, she purchased furniture, toys, and books.
"It’s important that everything, including the toys, be at the children’s eye level," says Irina Avtutova, the founder of the nursery service. "I also purchased a Pikler set, where each child, at their own pace, develops their body and gross motor skills. Sleeping areas are also adapted, with cribs that can be opened into two levels. We have a small staircase secured with handles, and a rocking horse as a reminder that it’s time to wash their hands."
The nursery currently cares for five refugee children from Ukraine. It operates until lunchtime and will have a full schedule starting in January 2025. Irina explains that she uses an approach based on independent development.
"It’s difficult because I want to give each child special attention, but it’s also easy because the children are very open, and if you can meet them at their level through play, we can achieve everything," she says.
Authorities emphasize the great need for launching family-type nurseries, as the waiting list for kindergartens in the country is very long. "To address this urgent need, a law was passed introducing three new types of services in Moldova," says Alina Andronache, a policy expert at the Development Partnership Center. "The first is the possibility for employers to create childcare services for employees' children at the workplace. The second is individualized care services, and the last is family-type nurseries."
"We are looking for individuals who have a vocation for caring for and educating children," says Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labor and Social Protection. "We can offer support, and the skills can be learned, but the vocation is crucial."
All caregivers of family-type nurseries are licensed individuals who have completed training in early childhood education, ethics, and health regulations. For the children's safety, parents sign a service agreement with the chosen provider.
According to official data, there are currently 19 family-type nurseries in the Republic of Moldova.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
