Vientiane: The Lao Women’s Union and UNICEF have officially launched ‘Luem Ton Di’ (‘Good Starts’), a localized version of the Vroom parenting tool, which was originally developed by the Bezos Family Foundation. This initiative aims to integrate brain-building activities into the daily routines of families across Lao PDR.
According to Lao News Agency, Vroom is an established tool in over 35 countries, offering parents and caregivers straightforward, science-based tips designed to transform everyday interactions into opportunities for enhancing children’s early brain development. The launch of ‘Luem Ton Di’ coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Lao Women’s Union, emphasizing the critical role of parenting in shaping strong families and societies.
Ms. Lavan Southisan, Vice President of the Lao Women’s Union, remarked on the significance of the initiative, stating that it combines the wisdom of local communities with global best practices in child-rearing. The initiative highlights the importance of the f
irst 1,000 days of a child’s life, from pregnancy to age two, as a period that significantly influences lifelong learning, health, and well-being.
Magali Romedenne, UNICEF Country Representative a.i., noted that ‘Luem Ton Di’ illustrates how brain-building can occur in various everyday settings, such as markets, walks to school, mealtimes, and bedtimes. The program’s simple prompts have been adapted for Lao families, enabling caregivers to support children’s growth effectively.
Vanessa Hegarty, First Secretary at the Australian Embassy in Lao PDR, expressed Australia’s pride in partnering with the Lao Women’s Union and UNICEF to provide families with the necessary tools to give their children the best possible start in life. The initiative is backed by science, with content developed by child-development experts and tailored to suit Lao communities.
The program will be implemented through trained village facilitators who will conduct practical sessions using activity cards and live demonstrations. Addition
ally, an innovative messaging service will offer regular tips and encouragement to caregivers via a WhatsApp-free platform, ensuring the reach of parenting support even to remote households.
Luem Ton Di will be integrated into the Love and Care for Every Child program by UNICEF Australia, funded by the Australian NGO Cooperation Programme. The Lao Women’s Union, UNICEF, and their partners are committed to expanding access to the initiative, ensuring that every child in Lao PDR can thrive.