About the organization
Public Institution "Vaiku ateitis" is a private non-profit organization established in Vilnius on July 7, 1999. It was one of the first private organizations in Vilnius county to provide free day center services for the community.
Currently, the organization's social activities are supported by Vilnius City Municipality. The main field of activity is social services. The day center is a public, non-profit institution focused on developing and fostering children's social and personal competencies.
Through its activities, the organization increases children's meaningful leisure engagement. The organization operates in accordance with regulations of the Republic of Lithuania's social security, education and science institutions, founder's regulations, and day center provisions.
The main function of the children's day center is daytime social care for children aged 6-18.
Since 2021, PI "Vaiku ateitis" day centers "Academy of Wisdom" and "Vaiku ateitis" have been accredited and additionally funded by Vilnius Municipality and the Ministry of Social Security and Labour of Lithuania.
The activities of children's day centers are supervised and administered by coordinators. Educational content is created and organized by the institution's senior pedagogue and social pedagogue.
The centers employ staff or have cooperation agreements with a law office, music therapy specialists, aromatherapy specialists, sports and music teachers, volunteers, and psychological support specialists.
Volunteers from the Lithuanian Scouts Association, Lithuanian Riflemen's Union, and Lithuanian Armed Forces participate in developing children's civic awareness and active leisure.
Program goal and activities
The goal of the program is to develop children's social-emotional competencies and cultural education, while promoting healthy lifestyle, physical activity, and nature awareness.
During camp, children are introduced to eco-tourism methods, tools, and practices that are important for developing the ability to take care of themselves in nature for longer periods.
During educational activities, children learn about the benefits of connection with nature and the importance of personal responsibility outdoors. Acquired knowledge and skills are important during trips when one gets lost or unexpectedly remains alone in an unfamiliar environment.
Camp participants learn to understand surrounding nature, plants, and animals, and use resources necessary for human survival.
With support from Lithuanian military volunteers and professional sports coaches, through team games and tasks, children develop responsibility, community spirit, and civic values.
Special attention is given to emotional intelligence, independence, and social skill development.
Activities are focused on identifying children's strengths and inner resources, getting to know peers, and strengthening communication skills and interpersonal relationships.
During different activities, children learn to notice strengths of others and express them.
Social-emotional creative workshops are organized: crafts from natural materials, handwork, and applying them in new projects.
Educational activities for positive communication skills and understanding positive discipline principles are also organized using drama and fairy-tale education methods.
In the camp, children learn to communicate productively and positively with others, achieve goals through positive behavior, and understand and empathize with other people.
