A unique opportunity. That’s what researcher Lisanne Jilink saw when she learned about the collaboration between Partou and Utrecht University. While there has been considerable research on nurseries, the area of out-of-school care (OSC) is still largely uncharted territory in scientific terms. “I found it quite remarkable that a childcare organisation was distinguishing itself by emphasising scientific research as a core focus," Lisanne explains. “Knowledge is crucial to progress, which is one of the main objectives of scientific research. And the information Partou gathers from the research will benefit the entire sector."
Lisanne joined Partou in the summer of 2023. She had the ideal background: a degree in Early Childhood Education Sciences and a master’s in Parenting Support. “Even during my studies, I was focused on research into childcare and the quality of early years education," she explains. "What I find particularly interesting is the intersection between science and practice.” Lisanne also worked for a time as a childcare inspector and an early years policy development officer, acquiring valuable insights into legislation, early years policies and practical knowledge in addition to her theoretical knowledge of the field.
More than just lazing about
The researcher noticed the dearth of scientific knowledge regarding out-of-school care, even though this branch of childcare is playing an increasingly important role in society. "The importance of nursery for children aged 0 to 4 years is now known and recognised," says Lisanne. “But during my inspections of dozens of out-of-school settings, I saw many things that made my hands itch. There is so much that needs to be improved in the programme. Children just lazing about on the playground or classroom is a real shame. The out-of-school club should provide challenges and be a stimulating environment for children to explore their interests and develop knowledge and skills."
She doesn’t want to generalise, however, as she says she has ‘also seen exemplary settings’. National research shows that there are relatively few activities offered for children in out-of-school settings. “At this age, children discover what their interests are and where their talents lie," Lisanne explains. “While some parents may dedicate a lot of time and attention to this at home, there are also less privileged families where parents may lack the resources or time to enrol their children in music lessons or sports clubs. These are gaps where out-of-school clubs can step in effectively.”
Observing and filming
Lisanne's research focuses on how out-of-school clubs can enhance their activity childcare services, programmes and interactions with children. The initial phase of the research involves gathering information and assessing the current quality and activity childcare services at Partou. In the latter half of 2023, she and her team of researchers and research assistants visited 72 out of the 500 Partou out-of-school settings. "We gathered information by observing and filming," the researcher explains. “Our aim is to gain a deeper understanding of children’s experiences at out-of-school settings, including their interaction with each other and with early years staff," Lisanne elaborates. “In addition to observing interactions, we also assess the layout and materials of the settings. The early years staff and nursery managers have also filled out questionnaires, for example, about the range of activities offered.”
Science and practice
This initial phase of the research serves as a baseline measurement upon which the subsequent research will be built. Lisanne and her team are currently working on further developing the plan of action. “For example, we also aim to investigate how Dutch out-of-school care compares to childcare in other countries," she says. “We will actively engage the early years staff, parents and children in the research. What are their wishes or ideas regarding providing more challenges and opportunities in out-of-school care?” Ultimately, the aim is to derive an enhanced offering and programme from this. "But during the research, we are already obtaining valuable insights and points of reference that we can certainly apply in practice. And, of course, we will test, adjust and refine those as well.”
Lisanne is particularly excited about the synergy between practice and science: “It is very valuable to conduct scientific research from a practical perspective," she explains. "The primary objective of the research is to ensure its practical applicability and benefit to those directly involved – children and the staff on the ground. This is our ultimate goal. Collaboration between science and practice is essential as it is crucial to achieving improvements in quality."
A commitment to care
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