Noticias

The early years lay foundations for learning that last throughout a child’s education. Learning begins when a girl points to something and someone follows her gaze; when a mother turns bath time into play; when a father talks, sings or waits for a response. Vroom turns these everyday interactions into learning opportunities through evidence-based practices that strengthen development during the first five years of life.

In Bolivia, the journey began between 2021 and 2023 in Uncía and Chayanta, where the tool was adapted to the Quechua cultural and linguistic context. The lessons learned informed Vroom Expansión, implemented between 2024 and 2026 in Cercado, Sacaba and Punata, bringing together work with families, early childhood education, health, protection and municipal governments.

The final evaluation reports that more than 80% of the children assessed reached appropriate developmental levels, compared with 24% at baseline, with particularly notable progress in hearing and language, communication, and personal and social development. Parents and caregivers also strengthened their practices in parenting, conversation, play and support for children.

The model built lasting capacity within services. Education, health and protection personnel received training, and Vroom was incorporated into sector plans. Sacaba and Punata passed municipal laws relating to holistic early childhood development; Cercado approved the implementing decree for its law and incorporated the Espacio Municipal Vroom (a municipal Vroom space).

The experience shows that strengthening early childhood development does not require a parallel system, but can build on what already exists: families, services and public administration. This combination of evidence, local ownership and coordination across sectors creates a pathway to expand the model and reach more children from the beginning of their educational journey.