Lapsevanemate tõlgendused noorsootööst ja ootused noortekeskuses tehtavale noorsootööle

Abstract

Estonian youth work has primarily studied youth satisfaction with youth work and assessments of the impact of non-formal learning (Väljaots jt, 2021; Kremann, 2018). Less studies have been conducted with parents. A study conducted by the Estonian Research Centre has revealed that the opportunities for leisure activities offered at youth centres in Tartu are very well informed 10% of parents, a bit informed 61% of parents and not informed 29% of parents (Hillep jt, 2010). It could cause a risk for young people of missing out from youth work. The aim of this study is to find out parents’ interpretations and expectations of youth work at youth centre. I used a qualitative research method and conducted individual interviews with five parents. The responses from the survey provide direction to policy makers and youth workers to inform society. In this way parents’ awareness of the content of youth work can be raised and more young people in the target group can reach the youth centre. Parents’ expectations can help youth workers in their job and raise awareness of parents’ interpretations of youth work. The answers to my research questions: 1. How do parents in the survey interpret youth work at youth centre? In parents’ opinion there could be main youth centre visitors in this age range - children from last group in kindergarten until adults. The youth centre is useful for young people who do not have sisters and brothers; young people from low-income families and young people with risky behaviours. The youth centre enables young people to participate in activities on an equal footing; to socialize safely; to increase initiative; to increase communication with an adult and to feel safe. 2. What are parents’ expectations for the youth work at youth centre? Most important parts for parents are supportive and trusting environment at the youth centre. In addition, youth workers should support young people's social skills; life skills and fine motor skills. Parents expect from youth workers to direct young people outside their circle of friends. As well they find benefits of organizing project writing workshops; playing through conflict resolution strategies and organizing information days.