The Mojca unit of the Kranjski Vrtci institute is pleased to announce a new addition: three sets of playground equipment specially adapted for children with developmental difficulties. Through safe yet engaging outdoor play, these children will have the opportunity to develop their motor and cognitive skills. At the same time, those attending the adapted pre-school programme will be able to socialise with their peers while enjoying the new playground equipment. This initiative, supported by Zavarovalnica Triglav as part of the “Children of Triglav” campaign, is expected to further enhance the development of this vulnerable group of children, according to Kranjski Vrtci.
Outdoor play is one of the key ways young children learn about the world and develop essential skills. This is particularly important for children with developmental difficulties. The Kranjski Vrtci institute, which has long provided adapted programmes for children with developmental challenges (including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, Down's syndrome, and others), is well aware of this. These children may experience challenges in areas such as movement, learning, communication, and social interaction. Teachers, alongside teaching assistants and the therapeutic team, address these needs through various activities, including outdoor play.
A playground tailored to our children
By playing on specially designed playgrounds, children with developmental disabilities can improve their balance, muscle strength, and flexibility. At the same time, they can develop cognitive skills, such as anticipating the next step and recognising potential dangers, as well as social skills like relaxation and interaction with peers. These benefits will now be available to this vulnerable group of young children through the three new play areas – a balance beam, a spring play area, and a seesaw – installed in the playground of the Mojca unit of Kranjski Vrtci.
"Our commitment is to provide every child with equal opportunities to play and learn. I believe these playgrounds will become hubs of joy, laughter, and creativity. We look forward to seeing our children explore, play, and enjoy nature," said Urška Kejžar, Director of Kranjski Vrtci in her thanks, adding: "Together we are stronger, and this new addition brings us one step closer to realising our vision of an inclusive and stimulating environment for all our children. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making this wonderful project a reality and to those who made the Children's Week celebrations a success with their generous gifts.”
67th playground installation as part of the “Children of Triglav” campaign
The installation of the new playground equipment at Kranjski Vrtci was made possible with the support of Slovenia's largest insurance company, Zavarovalnica Triglav, which has been dedicated to creating a safer future for nearly 125 years. This mission is also being realised through the Children of Triglav campaign, which has already contributed to the construction of numerous playgrounds in both urban areas and mountain regions. For many years, the campaign has encouraged young children and their families to spend their free time in healthy, active ways by investing in children's play spaces and adding new equipment to existing playgrounds.
"As part of the Children of Triglav campaign, and in cooperation with Kranjski Vrtci, today’s unveiling of the new playgrounds enhances opportunities for the development of motor and social skills in children with developmental challenges. I am confident that, with the support of the dedicated and caring teachers, assistants, and therapy team, these children will overcome many obstacles through outdoor play, form bonds with their peers, and develop their abilities safely and successfully," said Mihaela Perčič, director in charge of the Gorenjska region at Zavarovalnica Triglav, during the opening ceremony.
