Estonian researchers develop model to measure children’s wellbeing

Researchers from the University of Tartu, think tank Praxis and the Health Development Institute have created an Estonia-specific model for assessing children’s wellbeing, ERR reported. The model includes about 250 indicators to track children’s living conditions and how they view their own lives.

The researchers say children’s wellbeing cannot be assessed only through grades, health measures or family income. Relationships, a sense of safety and belonging, self-confidence and the feeling that their opinions matter are also important. A child may do well at school and be physically healthy while still experiencing loneliness or constant stress.

Although many studies have been conducted on children in Estonia, the data have been scattered and there has been no comprehensive overview of their situation. The new model is intended to bring together different aspects of children’s lives and include children’s own perspectives.

Children and young people aged 14 to 20 with varied backgrounds and experiences were involved in developing the model. The researchers also gathered information from kindergarten children and children with special needs, migration backgrounds or experience of offending, as well as those in substitute care or at risk of social exclusion.

The model covers eight interconnected areas: health; material resources; the environment and living conditions; personal development and learning; use of time and leisure; safety and protection; relationships; and culture and integration. It considers wellbeing at the level of the child, family, peers, educational institution, municipality, state and society. Indicators include children’s satisfaction with life and how safe they feel.