Space for exchange and help

The childcare centre closes at 5 pm, but the lecture goes on until 6.15 pm? Reconciling studying and childcare at the same time is a feat of strength and can present student parents with major challenges. "I take my hat off to everyone who manages this," says Julia Heinemann. The 25-year-old trained educator is studying Digital Media Production in Bremerhaven and set up the "Little Campus" group at the invitation of the Centre for Equal Opportunities. The peer-to-peer format is offered by StudiTalk, commissioned by the university's Centre for Equal Opportunities and Diversity. Julia Heinemann wants to connect students with children and create a space for dialogue. "You have similar questions, similar issues, so it's good to be able to help each other." She is pleased to be able to support student parents with her experience and specific tips and is also endeavouring to cooperate with Bremerhaven's Office for Youth, Family and Women.

Family and breastfeeding room set up

"Little Campus" is mainly aimed at students, "but employees with children can also take part". The aim is for participants to come together, meet regularly and take turns organising childcare at the university, for example. "We have a family and breastfeeding room on the third floor of House B where children can play." On the shelves of the bright and friendly room there are wooden toys, books, board games, puzzles, colouring materials and seating for young and old alike. A workstation is set up in the neighbouring room where parents can study. "There will also be a small play area on the lawn in front of House B," adds Gudrun Zimmermann, Head of the Centre for Equal Opportunities and Diversity. She will soon be enquiring about the need for childcare and compatibility. "We are making preparations with the Bremerhaven City Council's childcare department to recruit a childminder for our university to offer childcare during off-peak hours."
University members who would like to join "Little Campus" can send an email to studitalk@hs-bremerhaven.de.