Situation Analysis of Early Intervention in Republic of Serbia

Abstract

Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services help ensure fulfilment of internationally mandated rights, strengthen inclusive societies, and support children and families. This situation analysis, jointly supported by the Early Childhood Program of Open Society Foundations and UNICEF Serbia, examined the status of ECI services in Serbia. The analysis was part of a project to identify opportunities for the development of ECI in the country. A primarily quantitative, mixed-method approach documented existing ECI infrastructure and service provision. Data were collected from a focus group with parents, field observations, and interviews with key stakeholders belonging to Health, Education, and Social Welfare sectors, advisory board meetings, and a survey completed by professionals serving children with disabilities (e.g., teachers, medical professionals, therapists) and a survey completed by parents of children with disabilities. 184 parents and 416 professionals participated. Professionals and parents agreed parents are often the first to suspect the child has developmental needs. Over half of parents and professionals indicated pediatricians should screen children for delays. There was less agreement on who should assess and serve children. Systemic barriers include lack of time, high caseloads, insufficient human resources, cost, and attitudes toward children with disabilities. Existing infrastructure and disciplines, university programs and emerging training on ECI, patronage nursing, pediatric, and developmental counseling unit services, preschool institutions, and amenable policies and legislation may facilitate the development of ECI services. A shift from a medical to a social and interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary service delivery approach through the Routines-Based Intervention (RBI) model; cross-sector alignment and agreements with program standards and quality indictors; and clear protocols and standardized practices will improve existing services. Piloting ECI services delivered through home visits, at centers, and within inclusive preschools will guide subsequent service development. A financial and efficiency analysis will inform caseloads and service intensity and duration.Parents and professionals need opportunities to learn about contemporary, evidence-based ECI practices.