"TOC TOC, Welcome Families": a new free space for families in Foligno

This morning in Foligno, in the presence of local institutions, we inaugurated "TOC TOC, Welcome Families"a free educational space for children aged 0 to 6 and their parents. This new socio-educational project is the result of a collaboration between the Valter Baldaccini Foundation and the La Locomotiva cooperative.

A New Point of Reference for Families in Foligno

The "TOC TOC, Welcome Families" space is designed as a welcoming environment where children and parents can experience quality educational activities together: "Family support is one of our Foundation's areas of focus" commented our president, Beatrice Baldaccini. "We were keen to offer our community a space where all families can share, free of charge, valuable opportunities for the growth of their little ones and for strengthening their parenting skills. This project is an investment in the present, but above all, in the future of our community".

Why TOC TOC Was Born: The Educational Value of the Project

The idea for TOC TOC was born from the work of pediatrician Mariolina Frigeri and psychologist Marta Franci of the Scientific Committee of the Valter Baldaccini Foundation: "TOC TOC was born from the awareness that children's development depends, crucially, on the relational environment around them," explained Dr. Frigeri. "This is why it is essential to care for the entire system that revolves around children, supporting families from their earliest years. Reading a book together, playing with little, listening to music, planting a flower in the garden: these are simple gestures that strengthen the bond between adults and children and support children's cognitive, emotional, and relational development. At the same time, for parents, this space becomes a place to meet, exchange ideas, support each other, and forge new friendships".

The educational programs curated by the La Locomotiva cooperative

The activities will be managed by a team of professionals from the Foligno-based La Locomotiva cooperative, which has been involved in early childhood education for years. "Until 2021, we were responsible for the "Villaggio Per Crescere" (Growing Village), which involved and supported many children, along with their parents. TOC TOC is its potential continuation and represents a further hub in the city's network of educational opportunities, so that it can become a truly educational community where every part of it cares for the growth of its children".

"TOC TOC, Welcome Families": location and opening hours

The "TOC TOC, Welcome Families" space is in Foligno, at the F. Innamorati Childcare Center, at Via Borroni 26. Opening hours:

• Wednesday: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

The space is completely free and open to all families with children aged 0 to 6. Reservations are not required to participate in the activities.