What a wonderful morning! On Wednesday, September 30, more than 110 (expectant) parents and young children attended the second edition of the Parent & Child Festival ‘Spotlight On’ at the Wassenaar Library. The festival marked the festive start of the National Children’s Book Week and focused on connection, discovery, play, and healthy child development.
Throughout the morning, parents had the opportunity to meet local organisations and professionals in an informal setting. They could ask questions about parenting, child development, health, and family support, while children enjoyed a varied programme of storytelling, movement activities, sensory play, and exploration.
A Morning for Both Parents and Children
The Parent & Child Festival is designed by Fit in Wassenaar (Kanslokaal) specifically for (expectant) parents and children aged 0 to 4 years. Its aim is to provide parents with accessible information, encourage connections between families, and raise awareness of the support and activities available in Wassenaar. The combination of parent-focused sessions and engaging children’s activities once again proved successful. While children listened to stories with Grandpa Stef, participated in the movement course, or explored sensory activities organised by BigBenKids, parents attended short sessions on parenting, language development, healthy childhood development, and the first 1,000 days of a child’s life. The photo booth, instant Polaroid pictures, and delicious coffee prepared by a professional barista added to the relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Valuable Connections
The festival was not only valuable for families, but also for the participating organisations. It provided an opportunity to share information, connect with parents, showcase services, and strengthen collaboration between professionals working with young families in Wassenaar.
“The combination of connection, information, and fun is what makes this festival so valuable. Parents discover that they do not have to navigate parenthood alone and gain a better understanding of where they can find support when needed. At the same time, professionals strengthen their collaboration in creating the best possible start for every child.”
Working Together for a Strong Start
The Parent & Child Festival aligns with the goals of Wassenaar’s Promising Start initiative (Kansrijke Start), which aims to give every child the best possible start in life. By supporting and connecting parents from pregnancy onwards, local organisations work together to create healthy and positive opportunities for children and families.
Together we look back on an inspiring morning filled with connection, learning, and fun. A wonderful start to Children’s Book Week and another important step towards a stronger network for young families in Wassenaar.
Thank You to All Partners
This year’s festival was made possible thanks to the efforts of:
Wassenaar Library
Norlandia Childcare
Dol-fijn Childcare
BigBenKids
Kwadraad
Youth Health Care (JGZ)
SMOW (Wassenaar Social Welfare Organisation)
LIVA Maternity Care
Wassenaar Dental Care
The Tropenclub
General Practitioners’ Neighbourhood Coordinator
Child and Divorce Knowledge Centre
Kanslokaal / Fit in Wassenaar
