News dated
About 80 government representatives, UNICEF staff and experts from 12 countries met in Belgrade on 9 and 10 November to discuss early support for children and families. The regional network focuses on early childhood intervention: coordinated services for children with developmental delays, disabilities or risks, together with their families. [1]
UNICEF reports that Serbia’s model is available in 20 of the country’s 25 districts, with more than 350 trained professionals. From 2027, UNICEF Serbia and the Institute for Early Childhood Development and Inclusion will facilitate the regional network. This is an announced organisational change; the meeting alone does not measure new benefits for every child. [1]
The bright side
A model already available in several districts provides a concrete basis for sharing expertise and coordinating support for families. [1]
One idea, in simple words
Experts and representatives from 12 countries met in Belgrade, Serbia, on 9 and 10 November. They discussed how to support young children with developmental difficulties, disabilities or risks affecting their growth. Early intervention means providing support during the first years of life and working with the family too. The idea is to connect people working in health, education and social support. Imagine, for example, that the people supporting a child share their goals instead of giving separate instructions. UNICEF reports that Serbia’s model is available in 20 of its 25 districts and that more than 350 professionals have been trained. The network is preparing new coordination from 2027. A meeting alone does not prove that every child has already received new services. [1]
A little discovery to keep
What did you discover?
Straight from the source.
- Early support for young children: an investment in the region’s future UNICEF Serbia · 10 Nov 2026
Original reporting summaries prepared with AI assistance and accessible sources. Our editorial method.
