Accessible Support in Childcare
The reality is that some children have difficulty accessing preschool due to care needs. Being confronted with this necessity on a weekly basis led to the birth of Tina OpStap.
This young preschool project started in September 2025 and currently has a living group of six children (aged between 2 years and 3 months and 4 months). Tina OpStap focuses on preschoolers who need stimulation in terms of self-reliance, social skills, and communication.
One of the conditions for admission is that the child must already be connected to a school and a CLB (Pupil Guidance Center).
By gradually preparing the preschoolers for their school start, we ensure a smooth transition into the classroom. This transition is made possible by developing a personalized trajectory for each child in collaboration with education and welfare partners. The project is closely linked to vzw Resonans.
Smooth Transition
By incorporating various classroom elements, children will recognize many things once they are in class. For example, we go through a daily timeline, which is also commonly used in preschool classes. Additionally, we teach children how to put on and take off their coats and hang them on their designated classroom symbol.
At Tina OpStap, we also receive support from our amazing speech therapists. Together, we stimulate (supportive) communication using SMOG (Speaking with Supportive Signs), communication cards, and pictograms. We also create a communication passport in close collaboration, which is handed over to the teacher at the start of school. This passport provides insight into the child's needs in certain situations and shows what they can do independently and where they still need help. The tool presents the child as they truly are—unique and recognizable to both familiar and unfamiliar faces. If desired, parents can arrange therapy during the day.
Of course, Tina OpStap is fully integrated into the entire Villa Clementina operation and carries its vision and values forward. The studio-based activities, such as arts and crafts, the light studio, and the gym studio, are also continued here.
Inclusion is a key part of Villa Clementina, and this extends to Tina OpStap. Every day, children from both living groups come to play at Tina OpStap, allowing all children to learn from and with each other.
Our volunteers are also invaluable at Tina OpStap. They assist caregivers during activities, mealtimes, and rest periods. Whether it’s offering a comforting hug, leading a circle time, singing together, playing, or engaging in sensory activities—these superheroes do it all.
