Leuven (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – In 2028, Leuven pilots a daycare center where children with and without high care needs will be cared for together, promoting inclusion and support.
Of the 36 spots, 8 are reserved especially for kids with multiple disabilities.
Through the Centre for Inclusive Childcare (CIK), the Belgium city of Leuven is demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusive childcare.
For this pilot project, they are collaborating with Centrum Ganspoel and Zorg Leuven.
Because finding appropriate childcare can be challenging for families with a kid who requires complicated care.
“The current care does not meet their needs, specialized care is often inaccessible or full, which leads to extra stress and pressure on the family,” says Bieke Verlinden, chair of Zorg Leuven and Vooruit alderman for Care and Welfare.
“The signals from parents affect us and also push us forward. We do not leave the needs of these families unanswered – on the contrary, they inspire us to structural solutions.”
“From 2028, children with major care needs will also be able to go to this inclusive childcare initiative, where they can grow up together with other children. Parents who are still hesitant to take that step today will thus be given a fully-fledged and accessible alternative. This unique combination offers children and families enormous added value.”
Centrum Ganspoel, a specialist in providing care for kids with disabilities, applies its knowledge to daycare. As a result, every kid, regardless of care needs, may be themselves in a secure and welcoming environment. The new childcare facility in Kessel-Lo’s Weerstandlaan is being constructed by Zorg Leuven. Eight of the 36 spots are designated for kids with multiple impairments.
In close collaboration with Opgroeien and the Flemish Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the partners are striving for an opening in 2028. By making integrated care structurally feasible, the goal is to establish a model for projects to come.
How will the inclusive approach in Leuven’s daycare impact my child’s social development?
Children in inclusive settings learn to interact with a diverse range of peers, which improves communication, empathy, cooperation, and respect for others.
Early exposure to diversity fosters values of fairness, dignity, and acceptance, helping children develop open attitudes toward differences that extend beyond childhood into adulthood.
Inclusion helps all children feel valued and part of a community, which is essential for building confidence and a sense of belonging.
