Project summary

Ibda'a kindergarten was set up in 1997 in response to a lack of sufficient facilities for the children in the Dheisheh camp. Supervised by the Ministry of Education, the kindergarten is able to accommodate 100 children between the ages of 3 to 5 years, under supervision of highly qualified staff members. It was selected as one of the five best kindergartens at governorate level as part of a developmental project in cooperation with the Italian Foreign Ministry.

Besides taking care and supporting the children in their development, a record is created for each child to note their attendance and store their work. This record forms the basis of an annual assessment enabling any developmental or psycho-social problems to be identified. If problems are diagnosed, support and advice are provided to the family as well as any required therapy.

The families of children at kindergarten are invited to join numerous events that provide support and education for the creation of a healthy home environment, particularly for young members of the family. Information is also provided on how to identify potential developmental or psycho-social problems and support in any action that may be required as a result of a diagnosis.

Project Aims

·       Provide a safe, protective, and nurturing space for children aged 3–5 affected by conflict.

·       Support children’s emotional recovery and stress relief through play and psychosocial activities.

·       Promote basic learning, social interaction, and a sense of normalcy.

·       Help children express emotions and cope with the effects of war in healthy ways.

·       Prepare children for a smooth transition to primary education.

Project teachers

27 teachers

Project Beneficiaries

100 children between the ages of 3 to 5 years

Project Policy

·       Children have the right to be protected from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation, regardless of age, ability, gender, ethnicity, religion, or background. We place freedom of expression, equal gender justice, and human rights at the core of all our programs and practices.