Learning, talking, playing, laughing, encouraging and comforting: no training is required for this, emphasized initiator Dorith Salvarani-Drill: ‘We assume that, like so many mothers, fathers and grandparents, their children will be looked after mainly in school elementary , but can also help in middle school, as well as our volunteers.
We are currently looking for people who can look after Ukrainian children, i.e. speak German and Ukrainian or only one of the two languages. You just have to be willing to give your time to the kids. As volunteers often become carers for the children, it is important to spend time together on a regular basis.
Collaboration with teachers in schools and after-school activities
Specifically, according to Frei.Spiel, the assistance is such that volunteers go to schools in the morning or after-school activities in the afternoon, where they support children who cannot receive this help from home. Guided and in close collaboration with the educators, they take care of the children according to a specially developed pedagogical concept, devoting their time and attention to them.
In this way, they can unleash potential and nurture talent. They also encourage children to move forward after failure and help them succeed. Extended support enables learning support, promotes social skills, self-confidence and joie de vivre. This creates a more level playing field for learning and career success in the future.
Founded in 2013, funded by donations
The support is aimed at children who need additional care to receive fair educational opportunities. For the parents, this happens without any additional financial or organizational effort. The offer is also free for schools. But volunteers are also supported. You can continue your education, attend workshops or take advantage of supervision. They are insured and receive educational and psychological support throughout the school year.
Vienna city councilor for education Christoph Wiederkehr (NEOS) believes that the model fulfills two essential social aspects: volunteering and the integration of Ukrainian children into the school system. FREI.Spiel is currently placing 116 volunteers, 80 in Viennese schools, 36 in after-school care. The association, founded in 2013, is largely funded by donations. In 2018, a cooperation with the Vienna Directorate of Education began. Since then, volunteers have also been used in elementary schools.
