The city of Vilnius has earmarked 1 million euros for summer camps, which will now also welcome preschool-aged children. This initiative comes at a time when the city's kindergartens experience a significant drop in attendance during the summer months; from July, attendance can drop to as low as 60%. With the school year ending earlier for younger students, working parents face increasing challenges in managing childcare during the summer. The camps not only provide valuable experiences and skill development for children but also support parents juggling work and childcare responsibilities.

Statistical data shows a steady increase in the number of children participating in summer camps in Vilnius. The trend has seen a significant uptick in enrollment numbers since 2022, jumping from 11,960 children in that year to a projected 13,783 in 2024. Notably, among these participants, there is a growing representation of children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs, highlighting the camps' role in fostering inclusivity. This increase signifies a positive move towards providing accessible recreational and educational opportunities for a broader demographic in the community.

Vilnius Vice Mayor Donalda Meiželytė points out that summer camps are crucial not just for children's development but also as practical support for working parents, whose summer childcare options are often limited. As more families face the dual pressures of work and childcare, the summer camps can serve as a crucial support system, ensuring that children have a safe environment while enhancing their social skills and interpersonal connections with peers. This initiative is poised to have lasting effects on community welfare and children's experiences during the long summer break.