What is a bso+ group exactly?
“A bso+ group is specifically for children between four and thirteen years old who require extra attention, structure and guidance. This may be necessary because they have autism, ADHD, ADD, or another developmental problem. The bso+ group I work in – at Partou Serpentine – is part of a regular after-school care facility. We collaborate where possible. For instance, during holidays or on quieter Wednesdays, we sometimes merge the groups. If it gets too crowded, a child needs rest or isn't feeling well emotionally, then we separate the group again.
What is the main difference compared to a regular after-school care group?
The strength – and also the primary difference from regular after-school care – is that there are fewer children in a group, allowing for more time and attention for each child. Another difference: in a regular after-school care group there is one pedagogical employee for a group of eleven children. In a bso+ group, there is one staff member for seven children. This enables us to provide more personalized guidance. Additionally, there's more time for one-on-one activities.
To provide a calm environment for the children, we also pay a lot of attention to the layout of the space. We keep the decor simple, with minimal colours. In our group, we have a building area, a comfortable sofa and a separate space where children can retreat if they want to be alone or are upset.
It's also comforting for the children to have their own chair and coat rack and to be able to bring their own toys. Moreover, we maintain close communication with the parents and the children's school. This ensures that we are all on the same page. And if necessary, we can seek assistance from an educational psychologist.
What does an afternoon at the bso+ look like?
Children arrive at different times between 2:00 and 3:00 PM. Most of them come from special education facilities and are brought by taxi. The children who arrive first start with free play. Once everyone is present, we wash hands and have a tranquil moment at the table. Then, we discuss the afternoon's activities using pictograms; defining which day it is, when it is time for a snack and when we go outside to play. This way, the children know exactly what we will be doing, in what order and at what time.
The children also use pictograms to indicate how they are feeling.
After that, we have drinks and fruit. We talk a lot with the children during this time. What did you do? Did you have a good day? You can tell they have a strong desire to share.
We also have a set activity every day, but it is not mandatory. Our motto is: everything is allowed, nothing is obligatory.
After the table moment, we always spend half an hour outside. Beforehand, I always discuss the rules that apply then, like sharing toys, since the children from the regular after-school care also play on the same playground. If there are many children, I often decide to go outside with my group earlier or later to avoid overstimulation.
Why is it important to have a special after-school care group for children who need extra attention?
In regular after-school care, these children often receive too many stimuli, which can affect their behaviour. At bso+, we can pay extra attention to their needs and provide more peace and structure. They can truly be themselves here, do what they enjoy, develop their talents and feel included. Another thing we notice, is that children from around eight years old start recognizing similarities in each other's situations, which provides a lot of support.
Parents also appreciate the presence of bso+. They see it as a great place for their child and it also brings peace to the family. This allows them to focus more on other family members or do things they would not have time for otherwise.”