Child Testing System Operating Without Proper Authority, Minister Croes Reveals
ORANJESTAD (AAN): During a parliamentary meeting on childcare, Minister Gerlien Croes revealed that a government department has been testing young children without the proper authority to do so.
The department uses the MDC (Multidisciplinaire Centrum) system, but it was discovered that nowhere in its establishment does it have the mandate to test children before they enter kindergarten. In February of this year, MDC submitted a request to expand its tasks and obtain the required authority.
Addressing Child Testing and Inclusivity in Aruba
Minister Croes highlighted challenges including the high number of children with developmental issues, such as autism, for whom testing is not yet materializing. She spoke on inclusivity, classroom size, and the possible introduction of classroom assistants. A decision has been made to reduce class sizes to provide more attention to children needing additional support.
