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The procedure that begins from the moment you apply for international protection in Croatia includes a mandatory health examination, the content of which is prescribed by the Ordinance on the Content of the Health Examination for Asylum Seekers, Asylees, and Foreigners under Subsidiary Protection.

The mandatory health check is conducted at the reception centre or accommodation facility that provides housing for migrants.

The examination includes personal hygiene measures (washing and changing clothes): disinfection of clothing and the individuals themselves, and replacement of underwear and clothing. 

After that, an initial health screening is carried out to identify signs of illness, such as fever, rash, or diarrhoea. If necessary, the person is referred to a doctor. 

Why is a medical examination mandatory

The basic medical examination is carried out during the first seven days of staying in the reception centre, with the aim of detecting acute infectious diseases and establishing vaccination status. At this stage, you will receive necessary vaccinations and be given a written confirmation of the medical check-up and possible instructions regarding health monitoring.

A supplementary medical examination with tests focuses on detecting or documenting any chronic infectious disease or carrier state. During this stage, additional vaccinations will also be administered, if necessary.

To determine the presence of infectious diseases, the health check, along with the medical history, includes screening for tuberculosis, scabies, typhoid fever, and, if necessary, other bacterial and parasitic intestinal infections. Additionally, blood tests are carried out for basic indicators of possible infectious diseases, and individuals coming from tropical countries endemic for certain diseases must undergo appropriate tests.

Based on the data obtained from the medical history and examination, other tests or specialist referrals should be included if needed, and the person referred for treatment.

A positive finding of a chronic illness does not affect the decision on obtaining asylum status.

Health monitoring

You will be under health monitoring for a period of 21 days, during which time certain infectious diseases (such as yellow fever, measles, and others) may appear if you arrived in Croatia during the incubation phase. During this time, the results of the laboratory tests will arrive, and the necessary vaccinations will be completed. 

After all the mandatory examinations and procedures are conducted, a health certificate is issued in two copies, one of which is attached to the documentation for the asylum request, and the other is kept by you. 

Vaccination

As part of the medical check-up and history-taking, it is necessary to determine which diseases you have been vaccinated against so far, i.e., your vaccination status, and the presence of a BCG (tuberculosis) vaccination scar is checked.

All persons up to 35 years of age, and older than one year, will be vaccinated immediately upon arrival with one dose of the vaccine against measles, polio, diphtheria, and tetanus.

Preschool and school-aged children up to the age of 14 will be included in the free Mandatory Vaccination Program in accordance with the recommendations for unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated individuals by age.

Health counselling

As an asylum seeker, you have the right to health care, emergency and essential medical and dental treatment, including medication, bandages, and other services necessary for treatment, recovery, or alleviation of disease or its effects.
You can exercise your right by presenting your asylum seeker card or the confirmation of your submitted asylum request.

Reception centres in Croatia

In the Republic of Croatia, there are reception centres currently providing accommodation for about 700 migrants:

Porin - in Zagreb; asylum seekers, asylees, illegal migrants (as a detention alternative) - temporary accommodation.
Kutina – about 80 km from Zagreb; for vulnerable groups – women, unaccompanied children, families with children.
Ježevo – under the jurisdiction of the Border Department of the Ministry of the Interior; detention and deportation centre for foreigners.

Families are not separated, and vulnerable persons, such as unaccompanied women, unaccompanied minors, and individuals who have experienced trauma, are accommodated in separate rooms.

The Foreigners’ Centre in Ježevo is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Interior and serves for the detention and deportation of foreigners. Although primarily a centre for illegal migrants, foreigners who have applied for international protection are occasionally housed there temporarily, after which they are transferred to a reception centre for asylum seekers.

If you have applied for international protection in Croatia and are awaiting a decision from the relevant authority, you are entitled to a certain level of healthcare coverage provided by the Ministry of Health. However, you are also required to undergo a medical examination, which is usually conducted at the Reception Centre.

Arrival in Croatia

Upon arrival in Croatia, a medical team will examine you to identify any injuries or urgent medical conditions (such as exhaustion or dehydration), provide necessary medical assistance, and, if needed, call emergency medical services.

Medical assistance will be provided as needed, especially to vulnerable groups, including children, unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, single parents with minor children, persons deprived of legal capacity, elderly and infirm persons, seriously ill persons, persons with disabilities, persons with mental disorders and victims of human trafficking, torture, rape or other forms of psychological, physical and sexual violence, such as victims of female genital mutilation.
If you have experienced severe trauma or any form of violence, you will receive appropriate health care based on your specific circumstances and the consequences of what you have endured. 

Level of healthcare coverage

Asylum seekers are entitled to emergency medical care and essential treatment for illnesses and severe mental disorders.

This means you are entitled to emergency medical care, emergency medical transport as determined by your doctor, and urgent dental treatment.

Essential treatment includes:

• life-saving interventions and stopping bleeding,
• preventing a sudden deterioration of health that could cause permanent organ damage or loss of vital function,
• shock treatment,
• treatment of high fever and prevention of infections that could lead to sepsis,
• poisoning treatment,
• treatment of injuries requiring urgent medical attention,
• emergency and essential dental care,
• treatment of chronic illnesses where delayed care could directly or consequently lead to disability, permanent damage, or death,
• treatment of severe mental disorders,
• treatment of infectious diseases.
  
  

Pregnant women and new mothers have the right to health care related to pregnancy and childbirth under the same conditions as individuals covered by compulsory health insurance. This includes postpartum care, medical and nursing services, midwifery assistance, medications, bandages and other necessary medical supplies during and after childbirth.
Read more in the Women category.

Children under the age of 18 are entitled to comprehensive health care as outlined by compulsory health insurance regulations.

If you obtain employment in Croatia before being granted international protection, you will receive full healthcare coverage under compulsory health insurance.

How to access healthcare services in Croatia?

At the Reception Centre for Asylum Seekers, you can consult a doctor from the organization Médecins du Monde ASBL - Dokters van de Wereld VZW (Doctors of the World). If you are employed, you can visit any general practitioner at a community health centre (you have the right to choose your doctor). In case of a medical emergency, you must call emergency medical services.

Regardless of legal status, every person in Croatia has the right to emergency medical care in life-threatening situations. If you experience a health emergency, notify an official at the Reception Centre, who will contact emergency services.

If there is a large number of people requiring urgent care in one location, triage procedures will be conducted to prioritize those in the most critical condition.

If you are unemployed, the Ministry of Health covers all healthcare costs.

Persons under international or subsidiary protection, and their family members exercise their rights to health care with a document issued by the Ministry of the Interior (permit of stay), proving their status in the Republic of Croatia.This document allows them to access health care in contractual health care institutions, within the coverage provided by compulsory health insurance.

Compulsory health insurance

Compulsory health insurance is required for all persons residing in Croatia, as well as for foreigners with approved permanent residence.

This insurance covers only basic and emergency healthcare services, while other medical treatments may require co-payment or full payment.

Services not fully covered by compulsory health insurance include specialist examinations and services, hospital treatment, medicines that are not on the basic list and require additional payment or supplementary health insurance.

Supplementary health insurance

If you are an asylum seeker or a foreigner under subsidiary protection and are employed in Croatia, you are entitled to supplementary health insurance. This is a voluntary insurance policy that individuals with compulsory health insurance can purchase from Croatian insurance companies. Supplementary health insurance covers the difference between the total cost of medical services and the portion covered by compulsory health insurance. This means you are exempt from paying for specialist examinations, hospital treatments, and certain medications.

Children under the age of 18 do not need supplementary health insurance, as all their healthcare needs are covered by compulsory health insurance.

What does basic health care cover?

Basic health care includes:

• primary health care, such as treatment of acute and chronic conditions by general practitioners, paediatric care, gynaecological services, and dental care
• specialist consultation health care
• hospital health care
• vaccination, testing, and treatment for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
• vaccination against other infectious diseases
• access to medications listed on the basic and supplementary drug lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund
• access to dental aids included in the basic and additional lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund
• access to orthopaedic and other medical aids included in the basic and supplementary lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund.

If you get a job in the Republic of Croatia

If you are under international or subsidiary protection and become employed by a Croatian employer, or if you qualify for compulsory health insurance through another basis, you will have the same healthcare rights and obligations as all other insured individuals falling under the provisions of the Compulsory Health Insurance Act.

In addition to healthcare coverage, you will also be entitled to financial benefits and the option to obtain supplementary health insurance. If you do not have supplementary health insurance, you will be responsible for co-payment costs for medical services.

If your employment in the Republic of Croatia ends while you are under international protection, you cannot remain insured as an unemployed person. Instead, you will regain your insured status as a person under international or subsidiary protection and continue to exercise all rights to compulsory health care.

If you are ill and need medication

For minor health concerns, visit the nearest health centre or your chosen general practitioner or family doctor, who will examine you and, if necessary, prescribe medication that you can collect from a pharmacy.

While some medications are available over the counter, many—including all antibiotics—require a prescription. 

In the event of a medical emergency, call 194 or 112, or go directly to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.

If you have been granted asylum or subsidiary protection status, you can work in Croatia without the need for a residence and work permit or a work registration certificate.

This means you have the right to look for a job and start working once employed by an employer.

Can I work as an applicant for international protection (asylum seeker)?

If you are an asylum seeker, you gain the right to work three months after submitting your application for international protection—provided that the Ministry of the Interior (MUP) has not made a decision on your status within that period. In such cases, you need a certificate of the right to work, which can be requested at the Reception Centre for Asylum Seekers (Sarajevska 41, Zagreb). The competent authority deciding on your request is the Service for International Protection.

How to find a job in Croatia?

If you are looking for a job, you can search for job advertisements on trusted websites or register with the Croatian Employment Service (HZZ). HZZ is is a public institution that plays a key role in regulating the labour market offer and demand in Croatia by helping job seekers connect with employers through various measures and activities. You can also seek assistance from organizations that provide employment support, such as the Croatian Red Cross or the Jesuit Refugee Service.

Registration at the HZZ is free of charge and should be done at the HZZ office in your place of residence.

To register, you must personally visit the HZZ office and bring with you the card issued by the Ministry of the Interior proving your status in the Republic of Croatia, OIB and any documents you have about your education, e.g. a university diploma or a certificate of completed education, if you have any. If you are an asylum seeker, bring the MUP-issued certificate granting you the right to work.

If you have specific skills or expertise that allow you to work independently, you may also consider starting a self-employment business. You can ask HZZ for more information about this option.

What happens when you find a job?

Once you secure a job, you and your employer will agree on the terms of employment. The most important step is to sign an employment contract, which clearly defines the relationship between you and the employer, i.e. your rights and duties as an employee and the rights and duties of your employer.

An employment contract can be fixed-term or permanent, and either full-time or part-time.

If you are unsure whether you fully understand the contract, consult a lawyer  . If you cannot afford legal assistance, you can contact free legal aid providers.

Am I entitled to a salary?

Absolutely! Every person who works for an employer is entitled to a fair and agreed-upon salary. If you work in difficult conditions, overtime, at night, on Sundays, or public holidays, you have the right to increased pay.

How is salary negotiated in Croatia?

Salaries are expressed in gross or net amounts. Net salary is the amount deposited into your bank account (your take-home pay), whereas gross salary is the total cost to the employer, including taxes and social contributions (health and pension insurance). Employment contracts usually state salaries in gross amounts, so ask your employer for the exact net salary.

What is the minimum wage?

In Croatia, all employees are entitled to a minimum wage. This is the lowest monthly gross salary paid for full-time work. In 2025, the minimum gross salary is €970, while the minimum net salary is approximately €750.

This means that if you are employed full-time, the employer cannot pay you less than €750 as your minimum net salary.

If you work overtime, at night, on Sundays, holidays or any other legally designated non-working day, the additional compensation you receive for these hours is separate from the minimum wage and must be paid to you on top of it.

The salary must be paid by the fifteenth day of the current month for the previous month, unless otherwise stipulated in the collective agreement or employment contract (for example, if your employer and you have agreed in the employment contract that the salary is to be paid on the twentieth day of the month).

Working hours

Working hours refer to the time you are required to be at work. Full-time work is usually equally distributed and amounts to eight hours a day (40 hours a week), while in some industries, it can be unevenly distributed. If working hours are unevenly distributed, the Labour Act offers several options for regulating them. In such cases, we recommend consulting an organization that provides free legal aid to help you understand your employment contract, as well as your rights and obligations. 

If you work at least 6 hours per day, you are entitled to a 30-minute break, which counts as part of your working hours.

Also, you are entitled to weekly rest.

If you work less than full-time, it is considered part-time work.

Right to annual leave

Every employed person in Croatia is entitled to at least four weeks (20 working days) of paid annual leave per calendar year. If you are newly employed or have had a work gap of more than eight days between jobs, you will earn your full annual leave right only after six months of continuous work. Before this, you have the right to a proportional leave—1/12 of the annual leave for each month worked.

What if my employer does not pay my salary?

Sometimes, employers fail to pay salaries even though they are legally required to do so. Employers must provide every worker with a pay slip (salary statement). If you do not receive one, request it—even if your salary was not paid.

There are several ways in which you can exercise your right to a salary in this case.

If your salary is unpaid, you have 15 days to submit a worker’s rights protection request to your employer. If your employer does not pay within 15 days of receiving your request, you can take legal action within additional 15 days.

For more details on filing a worker's rights protection request or seeking legal help, contact organizations that provide free legal aid. You can also reach out to them if you suspect your employer is violating your rights.

As an asylum seeker or a person under subsidiary protection, you have the right to reunite with your family members, meaning they have the right to come to Croatia and continue living there under conditions prescribed by law.

Family members eligible for this right include:

• your spouse or common-law partner or same-sex partner (if you have more than one spouse, you may only bring one husband or wife)
• your minor children or the minor children of your partner if they are under their care
• your adult child if they are ill or in a health condition that prevents them from taking care of themselves
• your parents, if you lived with them in a shared household and it is determined they depend on your care (for example, if they are seriously ill and elderly)
• for a child who arrived in Croatia and has been granted asylum or subsidiary protection, their parents or another person who cared for the child in the country of origin (instead of the parents) will be allowed to come.

In some cases, if there are special personal or serious humanitarian reasons, other family members may also be allowed to join you in Croatia.

If the application is approved, the family member(s) will be granted temporary residence for up to one year, which must be renewed annually. Minor children who have not established their own family will receive the same status as you (asylum or subsidiary protection).

Your family members will have the same rights in Croatia as you do.

How to prove you are family members?

You can prove family ties with official documents, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate.

If you do not have these documents or are unable to obtain them, this cannot be the sole reason for rejecting your application for family reunification. If you have asylum or temporary protection status, you are entitled to free legal aid. You should seek advice on the steps to appeal against a negative decision.

For a child in Croatia without family, an assigned guardian will assist with all necessary steps and communication with institutions and authorities during the reunification process.

Conditions for granting temporary permit of stay for the purpose of family reunification

Temporary stay for family reunification will be granted to a close family member if:

• the purpose of temporary stay is proven
• they have a valid travel document
• they are not banned from entering or staying in Croatia
• they do not pose a threat to public order, national security, or public health.

Family members of asylum seekers or persons under subsidiary protection are in a more favourable position as they are not required to provide proof of health insurance or financial means of support.

What does the family reunification process look like?

The procedure consists of two stages. The first stage of the procedure involves submitting an application for granting temporary stay, while the second stage concerns obtaining a visa or permit of stay.

The family reunification procedure is initiated by a family member who wishes to be reunited by submitting an application for temporary stay at the diplomatic mission or consular office of the Republic of Croatia. If the person does not need a visa to enter the Republic of Croatia, they may apply directly at a police station or administrative office in the area where they plan to reside.

The application is submitted personally or via secure courier mail. All documents must be originals or certified copies. Foreign documents must be legalized and translated into Croatian. If no sworn court interpreter for Croatian is available in the home country or in the country where the diplomatic consular mission is located, a certified translation into English can be submitted.

Along with the completed application, the family member must provide:

• a copy of a valid travel document
• a colour photo size 3x3.5 cm
• police clearance certificate
• proof of purpose for the stay.

Once the application is received, the embassy or consulate will forward the application to the relevant police station or office in Croatia. The decision is made by the Ministry of the Interior via the police.

If additional documentation is needed, you, as the person in relation to whom the family reunification procedure is initiated, can also submit it. The competent police station/administration in Croatia shall inform the diplomatic mission or consular office of Croatia.

Once temporary residence is approved, the family member must apply for a long-term visa (D visa). 

The application should be submitted no earlier than two months before, and no later than two months after the temporary residence begins. The application must be submitted at the Croatian embassy/consulate or VFS Global visa center.

The application should be accompanied by:

• a valid travel document
• a photo
• proof of approved temporary residence
• proof of travel arrangements
• proof of adequate and valid travel insurance
• proof of visa fee payment (plus VFS Global fee if applicable)

The application must be filled out in Latin script, uppercase letters, and signed by hand. Fingerprints will be taken at the time of visa D application submission.

The decision on the visa request is usually made within 15 days, but this may be extended to a maximum of 45 days if justified.

Once you have been granted asylum or subsidiary protection, you are entitled to compulsory health insurance and can choose your primary healthcare providers: general practitioners/family physicians and dentists. Women have the right to choose a gynaecologist, and parents of children under seven can select a paediatrician. 

You should choose doctors within your place of residence or, if unavailable, in the nearest location.

Important! Doctors are not obligated to accept new patients if they have reached their maximum capacity. To check availability of a specific primary health care practice, use the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) search engine. 
Also, it's sometimes hard to reach the doctor's office by phone, so we recommend not giving up if you don’t get through after a few tries – check the clinic’s working hours and go there in person; that’s the fastest way to arrange your selection.

The Croatian Health Insurance Fund website provides a primary care provider search engine  which helps you identify available doctors in each health centre.

To assist you in using the search engine, we provide a guide explaining its menus and features.

Picture 1. 

Naselje - Settlement (your place of residence, which determines your choice of doctor)
Odabir djelatnosti - Choosing an activity (select the type of doctor you need)

Picture 2.

1050000 - Dental health care (dentist)
1010000 - General/family medicine (general practitioner or family practitioner)
1020000 - Health care of preschool children (paediatrician)
1040000 - Women's health care (gynaecologist)

Picture 3.

List of doctors according to the search criterion. You can further refine your search by area (e.g. within Zagreb or another larger city) to see which doctors are accepting new patients and which are not.

Picture 4.

The colour indicates the availability of the doctor:

Red - the doctor is not accepting new patients
Yellow - the doctor has limited availability 
Green - the doctor is accepting new patents
White - a team in formation; likely to have more availability for new patients

It is always easier to make an appointment in person. If you have the option between calling or emailing a potential doctor and visiting them in person, choose the latter. A direct visit allows you to inquire about availability and the possibility of registering as a new patient.

Choosing a doctor

Once you find a doctor who can register you as their patient, ask the nurse at the clinic for the Statement of Choice/Change of Chosen Healthcare Provider form. The Statement of Choice/Change of Chosen Healthcare Provider can be downloaded online HERE  (in Croatian).

In the form, you must specify one of four activities: general/family medicine, dental health care, women's health care (gynaecological care) or health care for preschool children.
The second part of the form must be completed and signed by your gynaecologist, along with the official seal of the healthcare institution or private practice. The signed Statement is then submitted to the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) for verification and entry into their records. In some cases, insured individuals may need to handle this submission themselves.

HZZO will certify the information based on the registered address of the newly selected healthcare provider. Once certified, the regional office of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund will submit one copy of the certified Statement to your newly selected doctor, and one copy to your previous doctor or institution in which he or she works, if you are switching doctors.

When can you can start using your chosen doctor’s services?

You can begin receiving healthcare services from your chosen provider no later than 10 days after signing the Statement. If you are switching providers, your former doctor must transfer all your medical records to you within three days.

You commit to your chosen provider for at least one year. After this period, you may change providers if you wish. If you decide to keep your current doctor, no further action is needed.

Arriving to Croatia and seeking international protection does not automatically grant you the right to work.

However, as an asylum seeker, you can acquire the right to work if the Ministry of the Interior (MUP) has not made a decision on your application within three months of submission. 

Once this period has elapsed, you may formally request the right to work by submitting an application—either orally or in writing—to the International Protection Service. The Ministry of the Interior will issue a certificate confirming your right to work within 30 days.
If your request is denied, you will receive a negative decision, which you can challenge by filing a lawsuit with the Administrative Court within eight days of receiving the decision. 

If you are accommodated in a Reception Centre for Applicants for International Protection and you find employment

If you find employment, you must notify the Centre in writing within 15 days of signing your employment contract. Additionally, you must submit a certificate of employment issued by your employer. 
If your job requires you to stay outside the Reception Centre for more than two consecutive days—for instance, if you are working outside Zagreb or Kutina—you must obtain prior approval from the Centre. 

After a decision is made on your status in Croatia

Once the competent authority decides on your application for international protection, your status will change. If the decision is positive and you are granted international or subsidiary protection, you will retain the right to work in Croatia. However, you must return the previously issued certificate of the right to work to the Ministry of the Interior within 15 days.  As a beneficiary of international or subsidiary protection, you will no longer need this certificate to be employed. 

If the final decision on your asylum application is negative, you will lose the right to work and must return the certificate to the Ministry of the Interior within 15 days.

Asylum seekers, aliens under subsidiary protection, and their family members exercise their rights to health care with a document issued by the Ministry of the Interior (residence permit), proving their status in the Republic of Croatia.This document allows them to access health care in contractual health care institutions, to the extent covered by compulsory health insurance. 

Compulsory health insurance 

Compulsory health insurance is mandatory for all persons residing in Croatia and for foreigners with approved permanent residence. It is administered by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO). 

This insurance covers only basic and emergency health services, while other services require co-payments or full payment, depending on how you exercise your rights to health care (for specific questions about your status, contact organizations that provide free legal aid[1] ).

Services that are not fully covered by compulsory health insurance include: specialist examinations and services, hospital treatment, medicines that are not on the basic list and require additional payment or supplementary health insurance. 

What does basic health care cover?

Basic health care includes:

• primary health care, such as treatment of acute and chronic conditions by general practitioners, paediatric care, gynaecological services, and dental care
• specialist consultation health care
• hospital health care
• vaccination, testing, and treatment for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
• vaccination against other infectious diseases
• access to medications listed on the basic and supplementary drug lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund
• access to dental aids included in the basic and additional lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund
• access to orthopaedic and other medical aids included in the basic and supplementary lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund.
  
  

In Croatia, there is also 

Supplementary health insurance 

Supplementary health insurance is voluntary and can be purchased by individuals who have compulsory health insurance through one of the insurance companies in Croatia. It covers the difference between the full cost of a health service and the portion covered by compulsory health insurance. 

As an asylum seeker or a person under subsidiary protection, you are entitled to supplementary health insurance if you are employed in Croatia.

Children and adolescents up to the age of 18 do not need supplementary health insurance, as all their health services are fully covered by compulsory health insurance. 

Before receiving health care in a healthcare facility, with a private healthcare professional, or another healthcare provider, you must prove your status with a document issued to you by a police department or police station. The range of rights to health care depends on your status in Croatia. 

Upon arrival in Croatia, certain preliminary steps must be taken to ensure that you and your family are registered in the Croatian system. This registration is the foundation upon which you can access various rights. It is essential to lay this groundwork to organize your life in Croatia in a sustainable way, ensuring long-term stability for you and your children.

You can express your intention to apply for international protection (asylum) in the following ways:     

• at a border crossing during border control
• at any police department or station and at the Reception Centre for Foreigners if you are already in the territory of the Republic of Croatia
• in exceptional circumstances, in order to enable access to the procedure for granting international protection, the intention may be expressed at the Reception Centre for Asylum Seekers

If you are traveling with minors upon your arrival to Croatia, the border police will ask you to clarify your relationship with the minor during border control. To facilitate border control procedures, it is advisable to carry documentation that proves your relationship with the minor. 
As the child's legal representative, you are expressing your intention to submit a request on their behalf.

If a minor arrives at the border unaccompanied, social services will be involved in the border control process.

Applying for international protection

You can apply for international protection by submitting a formal statement at the Reception Centre for Asylum Seekers in Zagreb or Kutina In exceptional cases, based on personal circumstances, applications may also be submitted outside the Reception Centre. 

If you have entered Croatia illegally but are coming directly from a territory where you were persecuted (as defined by the Geneva Convention) and face a real risk of serious injustice upon return, you will not be penalized for illegal entry or stay—provided that you immediately express your intention to apply for international protection and present valid reasons for your irregular entry or stay.

Authorities responsible for asylum and subsidiary protection

The Ministry of the Interior, Service for Foreigners and Asylum handles first-instance applications for international protection. If your application is denied, you may file an administrative dispute before the competent court.

Important!

• You may also apply for international protection if you are intercepted while crossing the Croatian border irregularly or staying in the country without authorization.
• Clearly state that you need protection, fear returning to your home country, or are facing persecution or life-threatening danger in your country. You can submit your request in writing, sign it, and hand it to a police officer. You can express your intent in any language.
• You are entitled to an interpreter in all interactions with the police, either in person or via phone. Do not hesitate to ask for interpretation assistance!
• If you are under 18 and have arrived in Croatia alone, we encourage you to immediately inform a police officer (if you are at the border or a police station) or any other official (e.g., if you are in a Reception Centre for Foreigners, your "inspector" or officer), so that a special guardian can be appointed to support you. This special guardian will protect your rights  throughout the administrative procedures.

If you need legal support during the application process, various organizations can provide assistance, and the Croatian Law Centre has created a poster with contact details of organizations that provide assistance to persons in need of protection.

To make it easier for you to navigate legal assistance, the Croatian Law Centre has created a poster with contact information where you can request and receive legal support.

Free legal aid is a service provided by legal experts and lawyers through some associations and legal clinics in Croatia. In certain cases, free legal aid also includes free representation in court. 

The following individuals are eligible for free legal aid in Croatia:

• Croatian citizens
• unaccompanied minors without Croatian citizenship who are found in Croatia without an adult legally responsible for them
• foreign nationals with temporary residence (subject to reciprocity) or permanent residence
• foreign nationals under temporary protection
• undocumented migrants and short-term visitors in procedures related to expulsion or return decisions
• asylum seekers, persons who have been granted asylum, foreigners under subsidiary protection, as well as their legally residing family members, in procedures where legal aid is not already provided by a specific law.
  
  

Types of legal aid

Free legal aid includes primary and secondary legal aid, as well as exemption from the court fees and costs of court proceedings.

Primary legal aid covers:

• general legal information
• legal advice
• drafting submissions before public law bodies, the European Court of Human Rights and international organisations in accordance with international treaties and the rules of procedure of these bodies
• representation in proceedings before public law bodies
• legal assistance in the out-of-court amicable settlement of disputes.

Secondary legal aid includes:

• legal advice
• drafting legal submissions for procedures related to the protection of workers' rights before an employer
• drafting submissions in court proceedings
• representation in court proceedings
• legal assistance in the out-of-court amicable settlement of disputes
• exemption from court fees 
• exemption from court proceedings costs.

How to apply for free legal aid

To obtain primary legal aid, you need to directly contact an authorized provider, such as a registered association, legal clinic, competent administrative body (e.g. if you live in the city of Zagreb, it is the City Office for General Administration, and the list of organizations you can contact is at the end of this text).

The process for obtaining secondary legal aid involves submitting an application using the prescribed form to the competent administrative authority in the area where you have your permanent or temporary residence.

The relevant office will review your application and issue a decision on whether you meet the conditions for secondary legal aid. If approved, the office will assign a lawyer to provide the necessary legal assistance.

Conditions for obtaining free legal aid

You may qualify for primary legal aid if:

• you lack sufficient knowledge or ability to exercise your legal rights
• you are not already entitled to legal aid under other specific regulations
• your submitted application is not manifestly unfounded
• your financial situation is such that paying for professional legal assistance would jeopardize your own well-being or that of your household members.

You may qualify for secondary legal aid if:

• the legal matter is more complex
• you do not have the ability to represent yourself
• your financial situation makes paying for legal assistance a threat to your own well-being or that of your household members, in line with specific conditions relative to the applicant’s financial situation
• the case is not about vexatious litigation
• in the last six months from the date of submission of the application, your application has not been rejected due to the intentional provision of incorrect information
• you are not already entitled to legal aid under other specific regulations.

The list of authorized associations, legal clinics and administrative bodies of counties and the City of Zagreb that provide free legal aid services is available HERE.

A short brochure on legal advice for applicants for international protection in Croatia, prepared by the Croatian Law Centre can be downloaded in several languages at the link.

You can read more about your rights and the possibilities of obtaining legal advice in the brochure of the Croatian Law Centre "You Too Have the Right to... " prepared in several languages.

International and Temporary Protection Act (Official Gazette) 70/15, 127/17, 33/23), which came into force on 2 July 2015, with amendments of 1 January 2018 and 1 April 2023, establishes the principles, conditions, and procedures for granting international and temporary protection. It also defines the status, rights, and obligations of applicants for international protection, asylum seekers, foreign nationals under subsidiary protection, foreign nationals under temporary protection, and the conditions and procedures for annulment or termination of asylum, subsidiary and temporary protection.

In accordance with the said Act, it is considered that:

• Applicant for international protection is a third-country national or stateless person who has expressed an intention to apply for international protection and is awaiting a final decision on their application. Exceptionally, a citizen of an EU Member State may also be considered an applicant for international protection when specified by Protocol 24 of the Treaty of Lisbon
• Asylum seeker is a refugee as defined by the Geneva Convention, who meets the conditions for asylum (international protection) and has been granted international protection.
• Foreign national under subsidiary protection is a foreign national who does not qualify for asylum but has been granted protection due to a real risk of suffering serious injustice if returned to their country of origin
• Foreign national under temporary protection is a foreign national granted temporary protection in cases where a large number of people flee to Croatia from a country where human rights violations have occurred due to war or similar conflict, generalized violence or internal unrest.

Upon arrival in Croatia, you must express your intention to seek international protection by submitting an application. This grants you the status of an applicant for international protection.

After submitting your application (for details on how to apply and obtain international protection status, refer to the section Status of a person under international protection and how to obtain it), you will receive an international protection card within three days. This card does not serve as proof of identity but confirms your right to reside in the Republic of Croatia and provides you registered address for the duration of the asylum process.

Family members who arrived with you are also entitled to stay in Croatia while your international protection application is being processed. 

As an applicant for international protection, you are entitled to accommodation in the Reception Centre, food and clothing provided in kind, hygiene supplies, reimbursement of public transport costs for the purposes of the procedure for granting international protection, and financial assistance. 

You are entitled to financial assistance if you are unemployed. If you have an income sufficient to ensure an adequate standard of living, or if you possess financial resources or have funds provided to you in another way, you are not entitled to financial assistance. 

If you have your own funds, you may choose to live at any address in Croatia at your own expense, with prior approval from the Ministry of the Interior.

In addition, as an applicant for international protection, you are entitled to:

• a procedure in a language that the applicant for international protection understands, with an interpreter for a language that is reasonably believed to be understood
• information about your rights, obligations and procedure for granting international protection, as well as legal counselling
• ensuring adequate material conditions of reception
• healthcare
• primary and secondary education
• free legal aid before the first-instance administrative court
• freedom of religion
• employment, if a decision on your application has not been made within three months and the delay is not your fault;
• appointment of guardians for minors and legally incapacitated persons in the procedure.

From the moment you express your intention to apply for international protection, you have the right to reside in Croatia until your procedure is completed. This allows you freedom of movement throughout Croatia, except in legally specified cases where movement restrictions may apply. 

 As an applicant for international protection, you are obliged to:

• respect the Constitution, laws and other regulations of the Republic of Croatia
• cooperate with competent state authorities of the Republic of Croatia and act according to their measures and instructions;
• undergo identity verification and security checks
• complete a medical examination 
• respect the house rules of the Reception Centre
• report to the Reception Centre within the specified timeframe
• attend hearings and cooperate with the Ministry of the Interior throughout the asylum procedure
• remain in Croatia during the entire international protection granting procedure
• notify the Ministry of the Interior of any address change within two days
• comply with movement restrictions, if imposed by the Ministry of the Interior.

Foreign nationals in transit have the same rights and obligations until they are transferred to the responsible European Economic Area (EEA) member state.

UNHCR, the Croatian Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations protecting the rights of refugees can offer educational or similar programs (Croatian language courses, health care services, sports activities, etc.) and provide other forms of assistance in the Reception Centre. Take advantage of these opportunities to ease your waiting period and help you adjust to life in Croatia.

If you have been granted asylum (international protection) or subsidiary protection in the Republic of Croatia, you have the right to reside in the country, with state-funded accommodation provided for up to two years from the date you receive the decision granting your protection status.

You are also entitled to: 

• work (residence and work permit or work registration certificate is not required)
• healthcare
• education
• freedom of religion
• free legal assistance (including support in drafting lawsuits and representation before the first-instance administrative court, in cases of termination or annulment of asylum or subsidiary protection)
• social welfare in accordance with regulations applicable to Croatian citizens
• family reunification 
• assistance with social integration
• travel document for asylum seekers (issued for a period of five years)
• ownership of real estate in accordance with the 1951 Convention.
• acquisition of Croatian citizenship in accordance with the Croatian Citizenship Act.

Family members legally residing in Croatia have the same rights as you. 

As a person granted asylum or subsidiary protection, you must:

• respect the Constitution, laws and other regulations of the Republic of Croatia
• report your residence within 15 days of receiving protection status and update any changes of your place of residence or address within 15 days
• carry your residence permit and present it to legally authorized persons when required
• attend Croatian language, history and culture courses
• inform the Ministry of the Interior if you leave Croatia or stay abroad for more than 90 days within a 180-day period, within 15 days of such a change

If your residence permit or travel document is lost, stolen, or missing, you must report it to the police department or station within 15 days of discovering the incident.

What is one-time assistance and who is eligible?

One-time assistance is a form of support within the social welfare system that can be granted to an individual – an asylee, a person under subsidiary protection, or a person under temporary protection – or to a household that, due to covering extraordinary expenses arising from current life circumstances (e.g. birth or education of a child, illness or death of a family member, natural disasters, etc.), is unable to meet basic living needs. It may also be granted for the purchase of essential household items or necessary clothing and footwear, if such needs cannot be met in cooperation with humanitarian organizations (e.g. the Croatian Red Cross).

This right is also available to adoptive parents, after the adoption has been finalized, to cover the needs of the adopted child. The application must be submitted within six months from the date the adoption is finalized.

How can one-time assistance be obtained?

One-time assistance is generally granted as a cash benefit, and exceptionally as an in-kind benefit.

It is granted as an in-kind benefit if the regional office of the Croatian Institute for Social Work determines that there is a justified assumption that the recipient will not use the cash benefit for its intended purpose. For example, if you are requesting assistance to purchase a specific item, you may not receive cash but rather the item itself.

How much is the one-time assistance?

The total amount of granted one-time assistance within a calendar year cannot exceed €375 for a single person (500% of the base), or €525 for a household (700% of the base).

The base amount is determined annually by the Government of the Republic of Croatia. 

The base amount for each year is determined by a decision of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, and for the year 2025, the base amount is €75 – (https://narodne-novine.nn.hr/clanci/sluzbeni/2024_12_151_2481.html ).

In particularly justified cases, when life circumstances so require, the Institute may grant one-time assistance of up to €1,327.23 once per year. 

Once the adoption is finalized, the adoptive parent becomes eligible for one-time assistance in the amount of €1,327.23 for the needs of the adopted child.

Where should the request be submitted?

The request for recognition of the right to assistance is submitted to the regional office of the Croatian Institute for Social Work according to the applicant’s place of residence.

How long does it take to receive a decision?

A decision on the recognition of the right to one-time assistance is issued within eight days from the date of submission of a complete application.

What if my application is rejected?

If you are not satisfied with the decision, you have the right to file an appeal. The appeal should be submitted to the regional office that issued the decision within 15 days of receiving the decision.

The appeal can be submitted in writing in person at the office, by mail, electronically, or stated orally on the record at the regional office.

For more information on other benefits within the social welfare system, click here.

Sources:

Zakon o socijalnoj skrbi NN 18/22, 46/22, 119/22, 71/23, 156/23, 61/25: https://www.zakon.hr/z/222/zakon-o-socijalnoj-skrbi 

Odluka o osnovici za izračun iznosa drugih naknada u sustavu socijalne skrbi, NN 151/2024: https://narodne-novine.nn.hr/clanci/sluzbeni/2024_12_151_2481.html 

https://socskrb.hr/djelatnosti/naknade-u-sustavu-socijalne-skrbi/

Can I acquire Croatian citizenship as an asylum seeker or as a foreigner under subsidiary or temporary protection?

You can acquire Croatian citizenship by naturalisation if you meet the conditions prescribed by the Croatian Citizenship Act, which are:

● you are at least 18 years old;
● you have been released from your foreign citizenship or can provide proof that you will be released if granted Croatian citizenship;
● you have lived in the Republic of Croatia with registered residence for 8 consecutive years prior to submitting the application and you have been granted permanent residence status;
● you have knowledge of the Croatian language and Latin script, Croatian culture and social system (note that this requirement is waived if you are over 60 years old);
● you respect the legal order of the Republic of Croatia, have settled all due public charges, and there are no security obstacles to your admission to Croatian citizenship.

What if I cannot be released from the citizenship of my country?

If your country does not allow release from citizenship or imposes conditions that you cannot meet, it is sufficient to declare that you renounce your foreign citizenship. If you do not have proof of release or of the possibility of release upon acquiring Croatian citizenship at the time of submitting your application, you may be issued with a guarantee of admission to Croatian citizenship – provided that you meet all other prescribed conditions.

What if I am married to a Croatian citizen?

If you are married to a Croatian citizen who has been granted permanent residence and lives in the Republic of Croatia, it is only necessary that you respect the legal order of the Republic of Croatia, have settled all due public charges, and there are no security obstacles to your admission to Croatian citizenship.

Where do I submit the application for Croatian citizenship?

The application must be submitted in person at the police administration or police station according to your place of approved temporary or permanent residence. If you are a person with a disability, you may submit the application through your legal representative or authorised proxy.

What documents are required for applying for Croatian citizenship?

Along with the completed application, you must submit:

● a CV and cover letter
● a valid identity document in a certified copy (passport, foreigner identification document) with a clearly visible photograph
● proof of citizenship (certificate of citizenship, certified copy of a valid passport or ID card)
● an extract from the birth register issued on the prescribed form in accordance with international treaties and conventions
● an extract from the marriage register not older than 6 months, for those who are married (if the application is based on marriage to a Croatian citizen, the fact of marriage must be registered in the marriage register in the Republic of Croatia);
● an extract from the civil partnership register (for persons in a civil partnership)
● a certificate of no criminal record, not older than 6 months
● the applicant’s consent to verify the authenticity of foreign documents submitted with the application
● proof of payment of the administrative or consular fee

Who decides on my application and within what time frame?

Your application is decided by the Ministry of the Interior, and the deadline for issuing a decision is no later than 60 days from the date of submission of a complete application.

When do I become a Croatian citizen?

Croatian citizenship is acquired on the day the decision on admission to Croatian citizenship is delivered.

If I acquire Croatian citizenship, what about my child’s citizenship?

A minor acquires Croatian citizenship by naturalisation if both parents acquire citizenship by naturalisation, if only one parent acquires citizenship by naturalisation and the child lives in the Republic of Croatia and has been granted permanent residence, or if only one parent acquires citizenship by naturalisation and the other is stateless or of unknown citizenship, and the child lives abroad.

The application for acquiring Croatian citizenship for a minor is submitted by one parent with the written consent of the other parent, or by the child’s guardian.

SOURCES:
Croatian Citizenship Act: https://www.zakon.hr/z/446/Zakon-o-hrvatskom-dr%C5%BEavljanstvu
Ordinance on application forms for acquiring Croatian citizenship by naturalisation and for the cessation of Croatian citizenship, and on the method of keeping and content of the records on acquisition of Croatian citizenship by naturalisation and under international agreements, and records on cessation of Croatian citizenship: https://narodne-novine.nn.hr/clanci/sluzbeni/2020_12_134_2566.html
e-Citizens: https://gov.hr/hr/stjecanje-hrvatskog-drzavljanstva/460?lang=hr

In Croatia, gynaecologists—who are part of the primary healthcare system—provide care for women's reproductive health. This means you can schedule an appointment with your chosen gynaecologist at any time, without needing a referral from another doctor.

Primary gynaecological care

 Primary gynaecological care is covered by the Croatian Health Insurance Institute (HZZO) and does not require additional payment.However, if you do not have supplementary health insurance, you will need to pay a co-payment, in the amount of about 2-5 EUR per visit.

For every payment made to the doctor, you should receive a receipt, which is important to keep. This is because there is a maximum monthly co-payment limit—once reached, you are no longer required to pay additional co-payment fees.

If you have supplementary health insurance, which costs around €10 per month, and possess an orange health card, you are exempt from co-payment for doctor visits.

If necessary, your primary gynaecologist can refer you to specialists in hospitals and request laboratory tests. They also approve sick leave and authorize maternity and parental leave.

Additionally, a primary care physician can prescribe medications, which you can collect at a pharmacy. The cost of the medication may be fully covered by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) or may require a co-payment. A private gynaecologist cannot provide these services.

Private gynaecological care

A private gynaecologist can typically see you within a few days for a non-urgent issue. However, this may not always be the case in smaller towns or during summer and winter holidays, so it is best to check in advance. In contrast, gynaecologists within the public healthcare system may require a wait time of one to two weeks for an appointment.

The cost of a private gynaecological examination varies significantly, but you should expect to pay at least €60 for a consultation without a Pap smear. Private gynaecologists cannot provide referrals to specialists, order state-covered laboratory tests, or approve sick leave—you must handle these matters through your primary gynaecologist within the public healthcare system. 

What does a routine gynaecological examination include?
When visiting a gynaecologist, bring any previous medical documentation if available. 

During the appointment, the gynaecologist will ask about your gynaecological history, assess any symptoms or concerns, and conduct a cervical examination. A cervical smear (Pap test) will be taken and sent for analysis.

The Pap test is one of the most common reasons for routine gynaecological visits. It is recommended to have a Pap test once a year, but it can be done more often if necessary. Some doctors, following new guidelines, perform it every two to three years.

In Croatia, it is standard practice to perform a vaginal ultrasound after taking a cervical swab. You can request your doctor to send you the test results once they are available, but they usually only contact patients if further follow-up is necessary.

If you want to check your results, you may call the clinic. Additionally, if you have access to the E-Citizens portal, your results will be available there.

 
Contraception

Hormonal contraception, as well as certain other types of contraception (e.g., IUDs), must be prescribed or inserted by a gynaecologist. If you are currently using or considering hormonal contraception or an IUD, schedule an appointment with your gynaecologist to discuss your options and obtain a prescription.

If you already take hormonal contraception regularly, you can usually request a prescription by phone or email without needing an in-person visit. Ask in advance or call the nurse for more information.

What to do in urgent or emergency situations read here.

Once you have been granted asylum or subsidiary protection, you are entitled to rights under compulsory health insurance and you are free to choose primary health care providers: general practitioners/family physicians, dentists, and paediatricians for preschool-aged children. Additionally, women have the right to choose a gynaecologist, and parents of preschool children under the age of seven can select a paediatrician. 

You choose doctors in your place of residence or in the nearest place if there is no doctor in your place of residence, using the procedure described in the text How to choose primary care providers.

The procedure for choosing a gynaecologist

Every adult female in the Republic of Croatia is required to be registered with a primary gynaecologist. In exceptional cases, girls under the age of majority may be included in the primary gynaecologist's care team. In this case, they apply with consent and are accompanied by a parent or guardian. In agreement with the primary gynaecologist and the parent or guardian, the minor is allowed to come to the examinations alone.

If someone has recommended a gynaecologist to you or you want to choose one according to your place of residence, use the search engine mentioned above to see if they accept new patients at all.

Unfortunately, many gynaecologists have too many patients, so you may need to contact more than one until you find someone who can admit you. Depending on where you live, a gynaecologist may only be available a few days a week. If there is no gynaecologist in your locality, you will have to travel to another city or town to visit one. 

Registration with the selected gynaecologist

When you have found a gynaecologist who can register you as their patient, ask the nurse at the gynaecological clinic to give you the Statement of choice/change of chosen health care provider form to fill it out. The Statement of choice/change of chosen health care provider can be downloaded online HERE

The form is the same for the selection of all providers in primary health care, and when you register with a gynaecologist, you select the item "women's health care". The second part of the form is filled out by your gynaecologist and certified with his signature and the seal of the office of a health care institution or private practice. The signed Statement is submitted by the selected provider to the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) for certification and data entry into the records, but in practice there are situations in which you will have to do it yourself.

HZZO will certify the information from the Statement based on the registered address of the office of the newly selected healthcare provider who submitted the Statement form. After certifying the data on the choice of doctor, the regional office of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund submits one copy of the certified Statement to the selected doctor, and one copy to the previously selected doctor or institution in which he or she works, in case you have already had a doctor and are now changing them. 

Deadlines

You can receive health care services from your chosen provider no later than 10 days after signing the Statement. If you are changing providers, your former provider will hand over all your medical records to you within three days at the latest.

You choose a provider for a period of at least one year and you can change them at the end of this period. If you do not wish to change them, you do not have to do anything. 

Making an appointment with a gynaecologist

You can visit primary care providers for an examination during working hours without a referral. When registering with your gynaecologist, check how you can make an appointment and take their contact details. Some prefer to communicate with patients by phone, others by e-mail. To make an appointment, simply call the office during working hours, tell the nurse what you need and she will schedule an appointment for you if necessary. It is not necessary to make an appointment with some providers, you can just come and wait for your turn. The gynaecologist will first ask you when you had your last period and/or when you expect the next one, so prepare this piece of information. Keep in mind that some gynaecological offices only schedule appointments at certain times (e.g. the first or last week of the month), or answer the phone only at certain times of the day, and that sometimes you have to call many times before the nurse answers. 

If you have any urgency, such as bleeding or severe pain, and any discomfort, pain, or bleeding during pregnancy, you can come without notice.

Services provided by primary care gynaecologists

You visit the primary gynaecologist for routine gynaecological exams, check-ups for specific concerns, and to monitor your pregnancy. They can provide referrals for any tests you need, as well as prescriptions for necessary medications and contraception. If you need to go to the hospital for something, e.g. you had a miscarriage, want to terminate a pregnancy or need to be treated, the primary gynaecologist is the one who will issue you referrals and prescriptions according to the instructions of a specialist from the hospital. 

Private gynaecologists

In addition to your primary care gynaecologist, you can also choose a private gynaecologist, for which you will pay an additional fee. In this case, simply call or email the selected private practice to schedule an appointment. You will need to cover the cost of the appointment yourself, so be sure to ask about the payment methods (cash, card, or both). However, if you need to undergo further tests at a hospital, a private gynaecologist cannot provide referrals or prescriptions for medications. Therefore, in any case, you should also be registered with the primary care gynaecologist.

In certain health situations, you will need an urgent gynaecological examination or a check-up within a day or two of the onset of symptoms. In such cases, it is best to contact your chosen gynaecologist (during their working hours) or go to an emergency clinic, which in larger cities is located within a maternity hospital or organized as part of community health centres.

You can get an emergency check-up even as someone who has just applied for international protection. The best thing to do is to contact the medical team responsible for all residents at your accommodation — they will arrange an emergency gynecological exam.

Urgent gynaecological examination

If you feel discomfort or pain in the pelvic area, it would be a good idea to call your primary gynaecologist and check if you can get an appointment in the next few days. Often, they will be able to see you if you explain your problem by phone or email. Make sure to call during your gynaecologist’s working hours and be persistent—don’t give up if no one answers the first time.

If you experience unexpected bleeding, you can usually get an appointment the same day. Some gynaecologists recommend coming to the clinic during working hours for such cases, and they will see you without a prior appointment.

In more serious gynaecological issues and bleeding—especially if these occur outside of your gynaecologist’s working hours, or in case of bleeding and complications during pregnancy—you can go to the emergency clinic, which in larger cities is located within the maternity hospital. 

Emergency help for gynaecological issues

If you have an urgent issue and cannot get an appointment with your primary gynaecologist in a reasonable time, or if your gynaecologist is unavailable for any reason, go to the emergency clinic at your local hospital or call Emergency Medical Services at 194. 

If you need medication due to an emergency, the emergency department can give you the first dose, and will include instructions in your medical report for your primary doctor to issue a prescription. After visiting the emergency clinic, be sure to contact your primary gynaecologist and bring the medical report, where they will see the emergency department’s instructions and act accordingly.

You can also receive an urgent examination as a person who has just applied for international protection. It is best to contact the medical team responsible for all residents in your accommodation facility—they will organize the urgent gynaecological examination and transportation to the medical institution where you will be examined and receive care.

Prenatal care is provided by primary care gynaecologists and is fully covered by the state health insurance system, ensuring expectant mothers receive the necessary medical support throughout their pregnancy. This means that all pregnant women who have compulsory health insurance or are entitled to benefits under it are eligible for free gynaecological care throughout pregnancy.

Additionally, pregnant women applying for international protection have the same healthcare rights as insured individuals under the compulsory health insurance system.

The first prenatal examination typically takes place between the 8th and 12th week of pregnancy. Around the 12th week, the gynaecologist provides the expectant mother with a pregnancy booklet, where all relevant medical information and check-ups are recorded. 
Pregnancy-related examinations with a primary care gynaecologist are fully covered and require no payment from the pregnant woman. However, those who choose to have their pregnancy monitored by a private gynaecologist must cover all costs themselves. Prices for prenatal check-ups with a private gynaecologist start at approximately €80 and can vary depending on the services provided.

Pregnancy check-up

Call your primary gynaecologist to schedule an appointment and be sure to inform the nurse that you are pregnant. Keep in mind that wait times at primary care gynaecologists can be long, so be prepared for possible delays. Be sure to bring something to read.

During a routine check-up, the nurse will typically ask you to provide a urine sample to test for protein, measure and record your weight and blood pressure, and confirm the date of your last period. This is followed by a doctor's examination.

This may include a vaginal exam to check the cervix (though some doctors no longer perform this routinely), an ultrasound scan, and measurement and and palpation of the abdomen, especially in the second half of pregnancy. After the examination, there will be time to discuss any concerns or questions you may have, so it's helpful to prepare them in advance.

Standard care for pregnant women

Croatian perinatal standards define the number of prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and other tests that a healthy pregnant woman should undergo during pregnancy. Typically, two appointments are scheduled in the first trimester, three in the second, and four in the third.   Check-ups are usually conducted about every four weeks, becoming more frequent as the pregnancy progresses.

For healthy pregnancies, three ultrasounds are planned: one between 10 and 14 weeks, another between 18 and 22 weeks, and the third between 32 and 36 weeks. Some of these ultrasounds will be performed at the doctor's office, while others may require a referral to a local hospital, often because the hospital has more advanced ultrasound equipment.

If the pregnancy is considered high-risk, the frequency and type of examinations will be adjusted according to individual needs. If a referral is needed for a specialist examination at a hospital in another city, such as a high-risk pregnancy specialist, travel expenses may be reimbursed if the round trip exceeds 50 km. The primary gynaecologist can provide more details, and the hospital must certify the necessary documentation to qualify for reimbursement.

Prenatal care provided by a primary gynaecologist is fully covered by state health insurance for all insured pregnant women. However, some doctors may attempt to charge for these examinations, often requesting cash payments. If this happens, it is important to remind them that compulsory health insurance covers all prenatal care services. 

Doctors may vary in their communication style. Some take a directive approach, giving instructions without encouraging patient input, while others foster open dialogue and invite women to actively participate in healthcare decisions. Regardless of the doctor's approach, it is essential to insist on clear answers to any questions and ensure that all concerns are addressed during each visit.

Additional support during pregnancy

As your pregnancy nears its end, you have the right to visits from a community nurse. If you would like a visit before giving birth, ask your primary gynaecologist or nurse for guidance on how to arrange it. 
A community nurse can provide valuable support, offering information and advice to help you prepare for childbirth.

Near the end of pregnancy

Around the 36th week of pregnancy, your primary gynaecologist will refer you to the hospital where you plan to give birth for continued care. Your first hospital check-up typically takes place in the 37th week, with follow-up visits scheduled weekly until the 40th week. After that, appointments become more frequent, usually every two days. Some doctors may recommend more frequent check-ups even before the 40th week. A standard hospital examination often includes a vaginal exam to assess cervical changes, an amnioscopy to check amniotic fluid (especially in multiple pregnancies), a CTG (to monitor the baby’s heartbeat for 20–30 minutes, an ultrasound, and possibly additional tests.

The procedures and tests available in Croatia may differ from those in your home country, so it is important to stay informed about their benefits and limitations. Understanding your options will help you make informed decisions about your care.

Blood tests

At your first prenatal check-up, you will receive instructions for an initial blood test, which includes a standard blood panel, blood type determination, and screening for certain sexually transmitted infections.

Screening for gestational diabetes is conducted between the 20th and 28th week of pregnancy as part of a repeat blood test. A final round of blood tests is performed after the 30th week, with an additional test for women who have a negative blood type.

If you are considering a water birth, be sure to ask about any additional urine or blood tests that may be required in the later stages of pregnancy.

Prenatal courses

Prenatal courses are usually offered at local health centres, but there are also online courses available in Croatian, such as the parenting courses provided by the Roda Association. These courses are free of charge. In addition, private courses are available, either online or in-person, so it is worth exploring options in your area. It's best to start looking for a birth and breastfeeding preparation course around the 20th week of pregnancy to ensure you find one that fits your schedule and takes place before your due date.

If you are staying in group accommodation, ask the staff if any pregnancy courses are organized by NGOs for pregnant women in similar situations. You can also check the websites of organizations that support refugees for additional resources.

In Croatia, most women give birth in public hospitals, which are available in all major cities and some smaller towns. Zagreb has four public hospitals and one private maternity hospital, the only private facility of its kind in the country. Other cities typically have one hospital each. You can find a list of all maternity hospitals in Croatia HERE (in Croatian). 

For women with health insurance, childbirth in public hospitals is fully covered and does not require payment. 
However, giving birth in a private hospital comes at a cost—the base price for a vaginal birth is 3,570 euros, while a cesarean section costs 5,300 euros.

Who can accompany you during childbirth?

In Croatia, there is no continuity of care between the prenatal, childbirth, and postnatal periods. This means that the midwife or doctor who monitors your pregnancy will almost certainly not be present at your birth. Upon arrival at the maternity hospital, you will first go to the clinic for an examination, where the doctor on duty will perform a vaginal exam, ultrasound, and CTG. After that, you will be taken to the pre-labour room, where you will stay with other women in labour until you reach full dilation. At that point, you will be moved to the delivery room. A midwife and doctor will check on you periodically, but if labour lasts longer, the staff may change due to hospital shift schedules.

Hospital policies regarding birth companions vary. In general, only one person is allowed to accompany you during childbirth, but they cannot be present in the pre-labour room. Some hospitals have specific requirements for birth companions, so it's important to check in advance with the hospital where you plan to give birth. If you need an interpreter, be sure to mention this upon arrival.

In addition to your partner or a friend, you can also have a doula—a trained birth companion who provides emotional and physical support during labour. Doula-assisted births are becoming increasingly common in Croatian maternity hospitals. You can find more information about doula services online. Doulas typically charge for their services, with prices starting at around 500 euros, depending on the service package you choose.   

How to choose a hospital?

You will typically choose a hospital based on your geographical location. However, some women opt for a hospital outside their place of residence if it better suits their needs. If you have health insurance, you can give birth in any state hospital, but travel expenses are only covered if there is a medical indication for delivering at a specific hospital. For example, you may need to give birth at a larger clinical hospital more than 50 km away if a premature birth is expected or if the baby requires specialized intensive neonatal care immediately after birth.

All maternity hospitals in Croatia hold the "Baby-Friendly Hospital" designation, meaning your baby should stay with you 24/7 from birth, without separation, throughout your hospital stay. This is crucial for establishing breastfeeding. Mothers typically remain in the maternity ward for three days unless complications arise with either the mother and/or the child. Hospital rooms generally accommodate multiple mothers, but some hospitals offer private rooms or apartments for an additional fee. If you prefer a private space, check with your chosen hospital for pricing and availability.

Questions to ask in the maternity ward

Here are some important questions to consider when gathering information and choosing a maternity hospital for your delivery:

• What requirements must my companion meet to attend childbirth
• Who is allowed to be in the delivery room with me (during a vaginal birth or a C-section)?
• -How long can my companion stay with me?
• Can my baby stay with me at all times?
• What if I need an interpreter during childbirth?
  
  

Childbirth at home

Home births are rare in Croatia, and healthcare professionals do not provide home birth services. Additionally, health insurance does not cover the costs of home births, meaning mothers who choose this option must organize and pay for everything themselves.  

If labour starts unexpectedly at home or wherever you are staying, an ambulance will typically arrive to transport you and your baby to the hospital.

Pregnant applicants for international protection have the same rights as persons insured under Croatia’s compulsory health insurance system, as well as those who have been granted healthcare rights on other legal grounds.

After giving birth, you are entitled to additional care and support for at least first six weeks (and beyond if needed). 

If you are pregnant or an applicant for international protection, you are entitled to healthcare for pregnancy and childbirth under the same conditions as individuals covered by Croatia’s compulsory health insurance system or those who qualify for it on other legal grounds.

Hospital stay

The typical hospital stay after childbirth in Croatia is 2-3 days for a vaginal birth and 5-7 days for a caesarean section, depending on the hospital. If additional medical care is necessary, you may stay longer or receive outpatient treatment. Choose the option that best suits your needs.

Visits from a community nurse

After returning home with your newborn, you have the right to visits from a community nurse. The first visit is usually arranged within 24-48 hours of hospital discharge, although this may vary depending on your location or if you were discharged over the weekend. Community nurses are based in health centres but work in coordination with hospitals to schedule home visits. If you gave birth in a hospital outside your place of residence, you may need to contact the community nurse service in your local area yourself. If needed, your primary gynaecologist or family doctor can assist you in scheduling a visit.

Community nurses provide essential postpartum support, including guidance on breastfeeding, newborn care and hygiene, and advice on postpartum recovery. Typically, nurses visit every 2-3 days during the first week, then less frequently as your baby grows. If you need more frequent visits, you can request them. Likewise, if you feel confident in your postpartum care, you can opt out of the visits. 

These services are fully covered by compulsory health insurance. A community nurse can assist with most postpartum recovery concerns and refer you to your primary gynaecologist if deemed necessary. If you have any urgent concerns or need immediate medical attention, go to the emergency room for gynaecological care.

First postpartum check-up

It is recommended that mothers schedule their first gynaecological examination six weeks after childbirth with their primary gynaecologist. Since appointments fill up quickly, book your visit at least three weeks in advance. This check-up usually includes an ultrasound and a general examination, as well as an opportunity to discuss any concerns about your recovery, contraception, or other health-related topics.

Mental health support

It is completely normal to need mental health support during pregnancy and the postpartum period. However, accessing these services in Croatia, especially through the public healthcare system, can be challenging. Ask your community nurse or primary gynaecologist about available support in your area. Many services are offered privately or through NGOs as part of specific programs.

An infant refers to a very small child typically under one year old, during the stage when breastfeeding is the primary source of nutrition.

In Croatia, all children—regardless of their parents' or guardians' legal status (including asylum seekers, individuals under subsidiary or temporary protection, and applicants for international protection)—are entitled to full healthcare services, just like Croatian-born children. 

Infant healthcare services in Croatia include:

• childbirth in maternity hospitals
• postnatal care provided by a community nurse after discharge
• primary paediatric care (usually in a community health centre) - routine preventive check-ups, vaccinations, and medical treatment in case of illness

 
Care in maternity hospitals

In Croatia, most children are born in maternity hospitals. Outside of Zagreb, which has multiple facilities, each major city typically has one maternity hospital.

Expectant mothers can choose where they wish to give birth, but most opt for the hospital closest to their home.

All maternity hospitals in Croatia follow a baby-friendly approach. This means that if both you and your baby are well after birth, you will experience skin-to-skin contact within the first hour (the golden hour). Your baby will stay with you throughout your hospital stay, and the staff will provide guidance on establishing breastfeeding.

The usual stay in the maternity ward is 2–3 days for a vaginal birth and longer if a C-section was performed. During this time, a paediatrician will examine your baby, it will receive a vitamin K injection after the golden hour, and before discharge, your baby will receive the first vaccinations, following the national vaccination calendar.

If your newborn requires specialized care, they will be placed in the neonatology department, where they will receive the necessary medical attention. Depending on the hospital’s policies, available space, and the expected duration of treatment, you may be allowed to stay with your child throughout their care.

Community nursing care

Community nursing care is a preventive, health-social, and educational service provided within families and communities through active participation and cooperation with users. Its primary goal is to promote and maintain the health of individuals, families, and the community.

What makes this type of care unique is that community nurses visit beneficiaries in their homes, ensuring that those in need receive support directly in their living environment. A significant part of their work involves caring for newborns and mothers, including:

• monitoring maternal recovery and infant development
• assisting with establishing breastfeeding
• educating non-breastfeeding mothers on proper formula feeding
• providing advice on hygiene, umbilical cord care, and everyday challenges with caring for a newborn.

Community nursing can be arranged by a request from health professionals, family members, neighbours, friends, or the beneficiary herself. For more information about community nursing, click here.

Primary paediatrician

A primary paediatrician is a doctor who provides medical care for children from birth until they start school. In the Croatian healthcare system, you have the right to choose a paediatrician during pregnancy or immediately after birth.

While parents have the right to select a paediatrician for their child, many cities in Croatia face a shortage of paediatricians compared to the number of children. As a result, some paediatricians may already have a full patient list and may not accept new patients. If this happens, you can ask your local community health centre to find paediatricians accepting new patients or use the online search engine for available primary care providers.

Once you have registered your child in the Birth Registry, you should enrol them with a paediatrician and schedule their first healthy-infant check-up, which takes place when the child is one month old. During this first visit, if everything is in order, the child will receive their first vaccination and the doctor will schedule future check-ups and vaccinations according to Croatia’s vaccination calendar. Your child will remain under the care of a paediatrician until they enrol in elementary school.

A primary paediatrician is a doctor who cares for children from birth to at least school age. They provide care for both healthy children (preventive check-ups and vaccinations) and sick children (treatment as needed).

Each paediatrician sets aside specific hours for healthy child check-ups and separate time for examinations and treatment of sick children. Therefore, it is important to schedule an appointment and arrive on time.

The first paediatric examination typically takes place one month after birth with the paediatrician of your choice. During the first visit, as well as in most subsequent check-ups of a healthy infant, the following procedures are performed:

• measurement of weight, length and head circumference
• examination of the child's motor development
• assessment of feeding habits and any related issues
• discussion of any concerns or questions regarding the child’s growth and development
• prescription of necessary vitamins, to be collected at the pharmacy
• administration of scheduled vaccinations, if due.

To ensure a smooth and efficient first visit to the paediatrician, it is recommended to:

• write down any concerns or topics you wish to discuss with the paediatrician in advance
• take the discharge letter from the maternity hospital and the vaccination booklet with you
• bring two tetra diapers (rectangular-cut cloth diapers) with you, as these will be used to lay the baby on during the examination and weighing
• if possible, bring an interpreter with you (inform in advance which language you or your companion - in the role of the interpreter - speaks
• if the child is hungry while waiting, feel free to breastfeed the child in the waiting room
• if using formula, bring a pre-prepared bottle in case your baby gets hungry.

During the visit, you will receive an appointment for the next healthy child check-up, typically aligned with the child's vaccination schedule. If your child requires an earlier or additional check-up outside of scheduled visits, this can be arranged with a prior phone call.

During your first visit, be sure to inquire about:

• who replaces the paediatrician during vacations or absences
• what time during working hours can you bring a sick child
• availability of an on-call paediatric outpatient clinic at the community health centre on Saturdays and Sundays, or where to seek medical help outside of regular working hours
• which hospital your child will be referred to in case of serious illness when the paediatrician is unavailable
• how to reach the paediatrician for urgent concerns or general inquiries (phone/email)

In Croatia, childhood vaccinations follow the national vaccination calendar, which is part of the mandatory vaccination program. This program is established by the Minister of Health, based on recommendations from the Division for Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases of the Croatian Institute of Public Health.

The program is revised every three years, though updates can be made sooner if necessary.

Current infant vaccination calendar in Croatia

¹ If the mother is HbsAg positive, the newborn receives a vaccine along with immunoglobulin according to the post-exposure regimen.
² Premature infants born before the 37th week of gestation are vaccinated with the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine following the 3+1 schedule.
^* Assessing vaccination status and administering any missed doses as needed.
^** A combined vaccine will be administered according to the recommended schedule. Infants older than two months will receive three doses of 0.5 ml of the hexavalent vaccine (commonly known as  "6in1", DtaP-IPV-HiB-HepB), the first of which will be administered at two months, the second at four or six months, and the third dose in the second year of life.
BCG – tuberculosis
HiB – H. influenza B
Di-Te-Per – diphtheria – tetanus – whooping cough
Polio – infant paralysis
Di-Te – diphtheria – tetanus
Mo-Pa-Ru – measles – mumps – rubella
Pn - Pneumococcus

Vaccination is available and free to all. Newborns typically receive their first vaccine in the maternity hospital. If delayed for any reason, it is administered during their first paediatric visit. All subsequent infant vaccinations take place at a paediatric clinic.

If your child’s vaccination schedule was interrupted due to relocation to another country and you wish to continue, consult your paediatrician to create a catch-up vaccination plan. Having a record of previous vaccinations will help ensure a smooth continuation.

From birth, an infant undergoes medical evaluations both in the maternity hospital and throughout the first months of life. These check-ups help assess the baby’s adaptation to life outside the womb, any birth traumas or congenital developmental conditions, overall growth and development, and the implementation of preventive healthcare measures. 

The schedule for infant check-ups is determined by the Plan and Program of Health Protection Measures under Croatia’s Compulsory Health Insurance. According to this plan, infants are examined at the ages of one, two, four, six, nine and 12 months.

Newborn check-ups in maternity hospitals

The first newborn check-up takes place immediately after birth, assessing the baby’s condition using the Apgar score.This test evaluates skin colour, breathing and heart rate, muscle tone and reaction to stimuli. The Apgar score is also assessed at five minutes after birth, and if needed, every five minutes thereafter. While this test measures the baby’s initial adaptation to life outside the womb, it does not predict future psychomotor development.

After the Apgar assessment, the newborn is placed in skin-to-skin contact with the mother, and assistance is provided for the first breastfeeding session. The baby is then weighed and measured (length and head circumference).

In most maternity hospitals, the newborn also receives vitamin K and eye drops to prevent neonatal conjunctivitis.

Before discharge, a paediatric examination is conducted—usually in the mother’s presence— allowing her to observe her baby’s health and ask the paediatrician any questions.

During the first days after birth, newborns undergo screenings for phenylketonuria, hypothyroidism, hearing impairment, and developmental hip dysplasia. Additionally, doctors assess the eyes, heart, lungs, spine, and feet to check for any abnormalities.

If no health concerns or risk factors are detected in hospital, the baby will continue routine healthy-baby check-ups with a selected paediatrician. However, if any health issues or growth and development concerns are identified, the infant will be referred for specialist examinations and interventions.

Routine check-ups in infancy

 Routine infant check-ups take place at two, four, six, nine and 12 months at the paediatrician’s office. The first year of life is a period of rapid growth and development, making regular monitoring essential for detecting any potential health concerns early.

During each check-up, various aspects of the infant’s health are assessed, depending on their age, including:

• physical growth
• nutrition
• diet: breastfeeding or formula feeding
• psychomotor development
• vision
• hearing
• speech
• oral health
• vaccination status
• prevention of rickets (vitamin D supplementation) and anaemia (iron supplementation).

All health data is recorded in the child's electronic medical record (e-record), while growth measurements are documented in growth charts.These charts help track any deviations from expected growth patterns and determine whether the child is following their own growth curve.

After the first year, children undergo three additional routine check-ups before their pre-school medical assessment: at 18 months, three years, and five years. During each of these check-ups, detailed information about the child continues to be recorded.

Once a child enters primary school, their growth and development are monitored by the school medicine clinic. Routine check-ups are organized in coordination with the respective school medicine clinic and the school the child attends.

Getting sick is a natural part of life, and sooner or later, your infant will likely catch common infections circulating in your home or environment.

As a new parent, you may feel more concerned about your child's health and frequently seek reassurance from a paediatrician. In families with older children attending daycare or school, it is almost inevitable that an infant will be exposed to illnesses from siblings. 

One challenge is that infants cannot verbally express their discomfort, so parents must rely on visible and audible symptoms and instinct. Understanding the most common warning signs that indicate a need for medical attention can help you make informed decisions about your child’s care and provide inner peace. If you are ever in doubt, do not hesitate to call your paediatrician for guidance.

The most common symptom that indicates a child's illness is fever.

Fever in an infant

Fever, defined as a body temperature above 38.0°C (measured under the armpit), is a natural immune response that helps fight infection. While fever is a common reason for paediatric visits and a frequent concern for parents, it is not always an emergency, unless it is an infant under three months old. Infants experience fevers more often than adults, and their temperatures tend to spike higher. 

Infants under 3 months old and fever

If your infant is younger than 3 months and experiences fever, seek urgent paediatric advice and schedule an appointment. If your paediatrician’s office is closed, contact the on-call paediatrician or the paediatric department of the nearest hospital for immediate guidance.*

Seek urgent paediatric help if, in addition to fever, the infant appears lethargic and does not respond to stimuli, develops a rash, shows signs of dehydration (dry mucous membranes, crying without tears, extreme sleepiness, or skin that does not bounce back when gently pinched), or experiences febrile convulsions (shaking episodes with loss of consciousness).

Infants older than 3 months and fever

For infants older than 3 months who have no other concerning symptoms, you can try reducing the fever with common physical methods (these can also be used for newborns but should never replace a paediatric evaluation):

• gently wiping the child with a damp cloth or sponge
• giving a lukewarm bath
• keeping the child in a warm, well-ventilated room
• dressing the child in breathable, lightweight clothing
• partially undressing the child and covering with a light blanket

 Fever can also be managed with fever-reducing medications (antipyretics). Always consult a paediatrician before giving your child fever medication for the first time, and follow the recommended dosage carefully. Giving a lower dose than prescribed is ineffective and will not produce the desired results.

Contact a paediatrician immediately, regardless of the child's age, if the fever (above 38°C) persists for more than 3 days, if it exceeds 40 °C, and if the child behaves unusually, has difficulty waking up, appears restless, or seems confused. 

Other concerning symptoms in infants

Regardless of your child's age, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• rapid or laboured breathing even after the fever has subsided
• heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, or small pinpoint skin or mucous membrane bleeding that does not fade under pressure
• angioedema – swelling of the lips, ears, or eyelids, difficulty swallowing
• loss of consciousness or episodes of shaking, appearing disoriented or unresponsive
• prolonged, inconsolable crying that is unusual or different from the child's typical crying
• fever in a child with a pre-existing chronic condition (e.g., congenital heart defect, lung disease, or a malignant illness)

If you experience extreme discomfort, anxiety, or a strong feeling that something is wrong with your child—even if the symptoms are not listed here—do not hesitate to consult a paediatrician, at least by phone. Trust your parental instinct! 

* In Zagreb, several hospitals provide paediatric care, so depending on your child's symptoms, you may have multiple options for seeking medical help. In other cities with only one hospital, contact the hospital's unified emergency department (where a paediatrician is on duty) or the paediatric department directly. In areas without a hospital, reach out to the nearest hospital or the emergency service of the local health centre for guidance and assistance.

In Croatia, a car seat is the only legally required piece of equipment for a child – starting from their very first car ride. If you plan to transport your child by car, even when using a taxi service, you must have an appropriate child car seat. If you don’t own a car, make sure to request a driver with a suitable child car seat when booking a transport service.

For newborns, only rear-facing car seats should be used. These provide essential protection by fully supporting the baby’s head, neck, and spine. In addition to this crucial feature, child safety also depends on the car seat being correctly installed in the vehicle and the baby being properly strapped into it.

How to choose a car seat for a newborn

Before purchasing or using a second-hand car seat, check the following:

• The car seat has a valid certification label (R44/04 or R129)
• The car seat includes a label with pictorial instructions for installation
• The car seat has all its original parts
• The car seat is within its usable life span (look for the manufacture date on the plastic shell; expiration info is in the manual)
• The seat has been tested in a car and can be installed correctly
• The seat has not been involved in a car accident.

Only a functional car seat, within its expiry date and not previously involved in a crash (if you are borrowing or getting a used car seat), will properly protect your child. 

If you are unsure, the Roda Association can help you with all aspects except verifying whether the seat has been involved in a crash – that information must come from the previous owner. You can contact Roda by email.

Proper installation of a newborn car seat

A newborn must always ride in a rear-facing car seat, which should be installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions. However, some general rules always apply:

• The car seat must be installed at a 45° angle relative to the ground. After the baby reaches 6 months or gains full head and neck control, the angle can be increased to a maximum of 60°. This angle prevents the baby from being ejected in a crash while also ensuring their head doesn’t fall forward and obstruct breathing.
• The seat can be installed using one of two systems, depending on the vehicle and the seat:
○ 3-point seat belt system – the seat belt should pass through the blue guides on the seat and be tightly secured so the seat doesn’t move more than 2 cm side-to-side where the lap belt passes through, or
○ Isofix system – the connectors are latched into the hooks between the seat back and base, and either the top tether or support leg is properly installed, with all indicators showing green.
• The handle of the car seat should be positioned as instructed by the manufacturer for driving.

Correctly securing a baby in the car seat

When placing a baby into the car seat, make sure that the baby's bottom is positioned in the deepest part of the seat.

Then, lay the baby down so that their entire back is supported by the backrest, and the head is aligned with the spine.

The harness straps must not be twisted at any point and should be threaded through the slots at the level of the baby’s shoulders or just below them. Nothing should be added to the straps except the original padding provided with the seat.

Once the straps are connected at a single point and buckled into the crotch buckle, they must be tightened so that only one finger can fit between the strap and the baby’s collarbone — in other words, you should not be able to pinch the strap lengthwise.

When a baby outgrows the car seat

Baby’s legs extending beyond the edge of the seat or touching the backrest is not a sign they have outgrown the seat and does not pose a safety or comfort risk.

Instead, pay attention to the weight and height limits stated on the car seat.

A baby has outgrown the car seat if:

• They exceed the weight limit listed on the seat
• They exceed the height limit listed on the seat
• The shoulder straps come from slots that are too low relative to their shoulders

If your baby outgrows the rear-facing infant seat but does not yet meet the minimum requirements for forward-facing travel, you must find a larger rear-facing seat.

The three minimum conditions a child must meet before switching to a forward-facing seat are: 10 kg in weight, 15 months of age, and walking independently. However, since these are just minimums, it is recommended that the child continues to ride rear-facing as long as possible, in a suitable car seat.

If you own a car and a car seat, Roda’s child car seat advisors can show you how to install and use it correctly. Send a message to: autosjedalice@roda.hr.

Over the past two decades, the role of fathers has evolved significantly—whether due to changes in men themselves or a broader shift in how society values a father's presence in a child's life. Today, most fathers want to be an active part of their children's upbringing. Some embrace this role instinctively, others ease into it over time, and many benefit from guidance as they build confidence and develop parenting skills.

Here are some ideas for how to get involved in your baby’s life, care for them, play together, and in doing so, build a strong bond.

How to nurture engrossment and bonding with your baby (0–12 months)

In recent years, fathers have also become the subject of bonding research, and a new term has even been introduced to describe the connection between a father and a newborn after birth – engrossment. It is no longer just about a father’s participation, but about a higher level of involvement, emotional investment.

Engrossment is not only what the father does for the baby – holding and soothing – but also what the baby does for the father.

Everything is new to babies.
They are just beginning to explore their environment and the people around them. They establish communication and receive attention from adults through smiles, cooing, babbling, and crying. Babies are very curious and love to explore. This is reflected in their body movements, reaching out with their arms, and trying to grab objects. Even though babies are fascinated by the world around them, they also need a sense of safety and predictability to learn that the world is a safe place. As babies get to know their mom and dad, they begin to prefer them over other adults and seek them out for comfort. This sense of security helps them feel safe in the world and develop relationships with others. It is important for fathers to communicate with their babies. The way a father communicates with a baby positively influences the development of speech and future literacy skills.

Here are some suggestions for fathers to help build a sense of security through interaction:

• Talk to your baby or use gestures and describe what you are doing. Babies love to hear familiar voices, even if they don’t understand the words. People don’t need to understand words to benefit from the sound of a human voice. Listening to voices helps babies develop language and communication skills from an early age. For example, you can tell a story. By changing your voice, you can make the story more engaging and encourage your baby to stay focused on it longer.
   
• Take part in caring for your baby – change their diaper, hold them, play, bathe them, or bathe with them. This will help strengthen the bond between you and your child.
   
• Let your baby touch and explore your face. This helps them get to know you and understand that you’re different from mom and other adults.
  Imitate your baby’s voice, sounds, and facial expressions, such as frowning, sticking out your tongue, and smiling. This is the beginning of communication between father and child.
   
• Play peek-a-boo. This develops your baby’s communication and emotional skills.
   
• During playtime, place your baby on their tummy from time to time (while they are not yet walking), as this position helps with muscle and brain development.
   
• Look at colourful and fun objects (even everyday items like clothespins are interesting to babies). This will aid your baby’s brain development and increase curiosity. Describe objects and let your baby touch items with different textures. Point to things in the environment or in a book you’re reading and describe them. This will help your baby understand better and develop motor skills such as hand-eye coordination.
   
• Accept that your baby will cry for many reasons – because they are tired, hungry, or uncomfortable. If you hold your baby while they are crying, they will feel comforted, safe, and cared for, which is crucial at this stage. Don’t be afraid of “spoiling” your baby by holding them too much.
   
• Sing, recite nursery rhymes, and read to your baby. Words, rhymes, and written materials build language and memory skills.
   
• Remember that play can be exhausting for babies at first. They can only play for a short time before they get tired and irritable. Then they need quiet, shared time with you.
   

How to play with your baby during the first year

During the first 6 months of life, a baby’s play involves interacting with their surroundings. Making faces, hiding behind hands, waving, and rattling a rattle may seem like small actions, but they are very meaningful. Offer your baby various items (play mats, hanging toys) that differ in colour, structure, and texture and that they can pull, stretch, or chew. Babies often become interested in unexpected things – the label on a toy or the string it’s tied with.
Don’t redirect their attention to the “real” toy – let them explore and choose how and what to play with.

Spend time in physical contact with your baby (massage, counting fingers while singing), and your baby may start reacting to tickling or bouncing while you carry them (once they can support their head!). You can place your baby on your feet, lie on your back, lift them into the air and let them “fly.” By the end of this stage, babies begin to enjoy turning, being tossed in the air, and other physical games (which mothers often worry about). Your baby’s laughter will let you know they are truly enjoying these activities.

If mom, grandma, or someone else feels the need to intervene or worries about how you are playing, calmly explain that you are keeping the baby safe at all times, that they will not fall, and that this kind of play is very important.

When your baby starts sitting up steadily and later begins to walk (not all babies walk by their first birthday), build towers from blocks or cups and let your baby knock them down. Roll a soft or small ball or encourage your baby to throw it while you roll it back.

Babies are especially fascinated by pots and lids, as well as clothespins – allow play with these and join in. Sounds are very important, so at least once a day, join in the banging and squealing. You can make rattles from plastic tubes or bottles filled with pebbles or beans. Light chains are fascinating in texture and sound, and you can make them colourful with (child-safe) paint. Most of the activities you do can become play if you involve your baby by describing what you're doing, the items you use, and their shapes and colours.

Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child”, RODA 2018.

More and more fathers today aspire to embrace their role differently from how they remember their own fathers or grandfathers. They seek to be more affectionate, emotionally connected, and actively present in their family's life. 

Modern dads understand that investing time, attention, and love into their relationships with their partners and children significantly enhances the well-being of the entire family.

However, many fathers need support and guidance in their parenting journey, especially if they lack role models from their upbringing. This guide aims to help you engage with your family from the very start.

Be a partner in family planning

The strongest foundation for parenthood is a shared decision between partners about whether, when, and how many children to have, made at a time when both are ready to take on this responsibility. Thoughtfully deciding on pregnancy and childbirth, and being aware of the implications, is the best preparation for assuming the parental role.

Early or unplanned parenthood can be a risk factor, potentially leading to challenges in the parental role, strained relationships between partners and with children, and increased stress and irritability. 

Men and women who become parents unexpectedly or before they feel ready may feel they are missing out on other important life aspects (education, career, hobbies, relationships, etc.). Partners should make family planning decisions together, including the use of contraception. Finding information, obtaining, and using contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancies is equally the responsibility of both partners. Nevertheless, contraception use often remains primarily the woman's responsibility. Men should support their partners in acquiring contraceptives, whether through emotional support or providing resources (time, money, transportation), and be willing to use male contraceptive methods if it's a mutual decision. 

Be a partner in birth preparation and support during labour

Jointly planning for pregnancy and childbirth is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of each other, discuss fears, expectations, and desires, and share your thoughts and emotions. When it comes to childbirth, men may sometimes feel excluded. Their partner undergoes a physical transformation and a demanding birth process that they cannot experience themselves. It is natural to fear for your partner's well-being and to fear the unknown. Share these feelings with your partner and emphasize your support. Discussing fears (and women often feel their fears are irrational) can bring you closer together.

Being present at the birth not only supports your partner but also ceremonially ushers you into parenthood, boosting the confidence needed to navigate your new role in the early weeks at home. Learn by taking on childcare responsibilities. There is no inherent knowledge or magical intuition that women possess about caring for a newborn. They learn about parenting by caring for their child, and fathers learn the same way. So, feel free to change dirty nappies, bathe your baby, and comfort them when they are upset. You might be clumsy at first, but the more you do it, the more confident you'll become in your parenting abilities.

Be patient

Getting into the rhythm of caring for a child is not easy, especially if you can't be with the mother and baby throughout the bonding period. After returning to work—most fathers do so in the first week of the baby's life—create small rituals during evenings or weekends. Take your baby for a walk, read to them (it's never too early; babies love hearing your voice), bathe them, gently massage them, soothe them with skin-to-skin contact, and hold them even when they are not upset. Take the initiative. Your partner might feel the need to oversee and handle all tasks related to the baby—feeding, changing nappies, dressing, soothing, and playing—around the clock. It is crucial for you as a father, for the child, and for the mother's physical and mental health, that you take on some responsibilities. Even if your partner resists, step in and take over some tasks and playtime. Don't wait for her to delegate; take the initiative and be an active participant in your family, not just a helper.

Stand your ground

Often unconsciously, women may hinder their partner's opportunities to bond with the baby by reacting to the father's initial clumsiness or different techniques in bathing or dressing the child. If your partner criticizes you, gently remind her that you are partners in caring for and raising the child, and that you are capable of taking care of the baby if given the chance. Understand that her reactions stem from her own fears and insecurities, partly learned and partly innate, not because she truly sees you as less capable.

Be a partner in breastfeeding

If your partner plans to breastfeed or is already breastfeeding, it is important for her to achieve her "breastfeeding goals". She may experience intense emotions when facing challenges, and you will need to support her and believe in her ability to overcome these issues. Educate yourself about breastfeeding to assist her in dealing with potential problems, as your support can be crucial for successful breastfeeding. Even when breastfeeding goes smoothly, ensure she can breastfeed comfortably and without interruption. Provide her with necessities (like food and drinks, especially in the early weeks when breastfeeding is frequent), and help by burping the baby after feeding.

Play

Fathers often interact with children differently than mothers, and that is perfectly fine. Research suggests that physical play, which fathers are more inclined towards, complements the mother's gentler, nurturing approach. So, don't hesitate to offer your child airplane rides, horsey rides, and similar games. But don't limit yourself to just this type of play—real men know that cuddling is important too.

Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child”, RODA 2018.

Although many adults view crying as a sign of stress, this is not always accurate. Crying is a normal reaction of an infant to a range of situations and stimuli—it is the way a baby communicates certain needs and responds to discomfort.
This makes it difficult to tell when crying is part of typical infant behaviour and when it might be a symptom of stress.

Other signs can help indicate that your baby may be experiencing stress:

1.   The baby refuses to eat, breastfeed, or take a bottle (there is a noticeable change in their usual feeding routine or behaviour).

2.   The baby suddenly has problems with bowel movements (diarrhoea or constipation).

3.   The baby is having trouble sleeping or has altered their usual sleep pattern or habits.

4.   The baby cries more than usual, cannot be soothed, or the crying sounds different from normal.
IMPORTANT: When crying is intense, prolonged, or sounds like screaming, it is very important to rule out pain or illness as the cause.

5.   The baby appears emotionally withdrawn, calm in a way that seems unusual, and does not respond to the environment as expected.

Read more about the causes of stress in infants and ways to help a stressed baby.
If you feel that, due to your life circumstances or situation, you are unable to help yourself or your baby, seek professional help.
In addition to the healthcare system, assistance is also available through various organizations that provide comprehensive medical support to asylum seekers or those who have been granted asylum, such as MdM.

When choosing a stroller, the most important factors are safety and the features you need.

You can purchase a 3-in-1 system (includes a bassinet, a seat unit, and a car seat), a 2-in-1 system (includes a bassinet and a seat unit, and possibly adapters for a car seat), or a standalone stroller with a seat unit only.

Although 3-in-1 systems are very popular, it is important to understand that car seats are designed exclusively for transporting children in vehicles and are not suitable for being mounted on a stroller for prolonged use. Their design and positioning provide optimal protection in the event of a crash, but outside the car, a baby should always be placed in a lying position (in a bassinet or a fully reclined seat) until they are able to sit up on their own.

Because a car seat is a more critical safety item than a stroller, we strongly recommend choosing a quality car seat first—do not choose a stroller and then settle for whatever car seat comes in the set before making sure the car seat is safe and suitable. More information on choosing a car seat is available in a separate section.

If you plan to use the stroller during the first months of your baby’s life, consider getting one that has a bassinet or newborn nest facing you. This allows you to keep an eye on your baby while pushing the stroller, which is important for their safety, and it allows the baby to see you, which is crucial for emotional well-being and bonding.

When getting a stroller, especially a used one, pay close attention to safety:

• Check whether the stroller is fully functional, especially safety mechanisms such as brakes, harnesses, joints, wheels, adapters, and the folding mechanism.
   
• Ask for the user manual and check whether all necessary parts are included. Missing key components can make the stroller unsafe or limit its functionality.
   
• Fold and unfold the stroller several times, test all movable parts (like the bumper bar or reclining seat) to ensure your child won’t get injured during use. One of the most common issues is pinching— that is, a child’s fingers, hands, or feet getting caught in the movable or folding parts.
   

Basic safety tips for using a stroller

• Never leave your child unattended in the stroller.
   
• Do not add extra mattresses, pillows, or similar items to the stroller bassinet.
   
• Stop using the bassinet once your child begins to sit up or push up on their hands and knees.
  Ensure the stroller is well-maintained and in proper working condition. Use only original parts and do not attempt to make improvised repairs or modifications.
   
• Never place the stroller bassinet (or car seat, swing, bouncer, etc.) on elevated surfaces such as tables, furniture, or makeshift stands.
   
• Refer to the manual, seller, or distributor to find out the maximum weight limit for both the bassinet and seat unit, as well as the maximum load for the storage basket.
   
• Do not hang additional items from the stroller. Extra weight on the handlebar, seat back, or other parts can cause the stroller to tip over.
   
• Once you stop using the bassinet because your child is sitting up, always use the stroller harness. The bumper bar is suitable for play, added support, or toy attachment, but does not replace the harness’s protective function.
   
• Always engage the brake when placing your child in or taking them out of the stroller. Before placing your child inside, make sure the stroller is fully unfolded and locked in position.
   
• Do not lift the stroller by the handlebar or bumper bar while your child is in it. Do not use escalators or stairs with the stroller while the child is inside.
   
• Only transport as many children as the stroller is designed and approved for.
   
• If using a rain cover, make sure there is enough airflow for the child and that they do not overheat. In hot weather, a child can easily become overheated.
   
• Be sure to dry a wet stroller thoroughly to prevent mould growth.
   
• A car seat, whether on its own or attached to a stroller, as well as a bouncer, swing, or baby carrier, is not a substitute for a bassinet or crib. When your baby goes to sleep, place them in a suitable bassinet, stroller (lying flat), cradle, or crib.
   

Extract from the brochure “Safe Childhood”, UNICEF 2020.

When helping an infant cope with stress, you must first take care of yourself. If it’s not possible to remove the sources of stress, try different methods to reduce and manage it. If you still feel that you’re struggling to control your emotions and reactions, seek support for yourself as well.

At this age, what matters most to the baby is contact with close and trusted people. Be present with your child and provide them with a sense of security. This means you should pay attention to the following:

1. Provide plenty of physical contact

Nurturing touch protects an infant from the negative effects of stress because touch stimulates the release of oxytocin (the “love hormone”) as well as substances that act as natural painkillers. These have a calming effect and reduce cortisol levels in the infant’s body. This effect leads to less physical strain and helps build long-term stress resilience in the child.

Although physical touch has a healing effect on the baby, pay attention to the signals your child is giving you. Some babies may become more irritated by gentle touch or rocking and may prefer firmer holding and more vigorous movement. Some may also need additional interaction with the person touching or carrying them, so talking to the baby while holding or carrying them, or singing softly, can be helpful.

Most babies enjoy being held and moved by an adult. When you move together with your baby, you help release their stress. The physical movement (shared with you while being carried) relieves physical tension, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), and increases levels of endorphins and oxytocin.

If you are able to get a baby carrier that allows you to keep your baby close to your body while freeing your hands (so you can go about your daily tasks or care for an older child), definitely try babywearing. With the rhythm of your breathing and heartbeat, and your familiar scent and voice, you will easily soothe your baby and help them feel safe and protected.

2. Do not underestimate your infant’s ability to “read” and mirror emotions

When you are distracted, upset, or feeling down, you may think your little baby doesn’t notice your mood—but research shows otherwise.
Even very young infants can detect unresponsiveness in their mother or another primary caregiver. By six months of age, a baby is able to distinguish between cheerful and angry body language. They can recognize signs of emotional states in adults, and the stress of a close caregiver can cause stress in the baby as well.

Your emotional state matters not only for your own health but also for your baby’s well-being—let this be an extra motivation to take good care of yourself.

3. Establish a calm evening bedtime routine

Most babies need help from their parents to fall asleep, and the gentler and more aligned your bedtime support is with the nurturing relationship you maintain during the day, the easier it will be for your baby to release stress, relax, and drift off to sleep.

Having physical closeness with the parent during the night can be very helpful (e.g., the baby sleeps in the same room as the parents, in a crib next to the bed with the side lowered, or in safe co-sleeping arrangements). Nighttime physical closeness helps infants regulate their stress responses from the day. But physical proximity is only part of the story.

Another crucial “ingredient” that helps babies is emotional availability at bedtime—using soothing, calming, quiet routines every evening to help your baby wind down and fall asleep more easily, and promptly and compassionately responding to your baby’s cries and signs of distress.

Studies observing typical nighttime routines in families with infants have shown that mothers who were rated as highly “emotionally available” were more likely to have babies with lower nighttime cortisol levels—meaning those babies were more likely to calm down, fall asleep, and stay asleep more easily.

Finally, it is important to emphasize that caring for an infant is often challenging and intense even in calm and ordinary circumstances. In situations of displacement and prolonged stays in a foreign country due to war and other hardships, it is essential that the adult caring for the infant (and children in general) takes care of their own needs and uses tools to reduce their own stress. Only by doing this will you have the strength to continuously care for the infant (and older children) in a supportive way.

Once your infant’s car seat is properly installed in the car and your child is correctly secured in it, it is also important to consider how to use the car seat safely in both high and low air temperatures.

Using a car seat during cold weather

In the winter months, when temperatures are low and we wear thicker jackets, it is essential to know that you should not buckle your child into the car seat while wearing a jacket. Before securing the child in the car seat, thick outerwear such as snowsuits or heavy jackets should be removed. Such clothing prevents proper tightening of the harness and can allow the child to slip out. Additionally, due to the amount of air trapped in thick winter clothing, during braking or a collision, the air gets compressed, potentially causing the child to be ejected from the car seat.

Dress your child in several layers of thinner clothing. Then, buckle the child properly without a jacket, and if needed, place a blanket or the jacket OVER the secured harness to keep the child warm. Of course, hats, gloves, thick socks, or booties can remain on the child.

Using a car seat during hot summer days

Although it is never safe to leave a child alone in a car at any time of year, the risk is significantly higher during warm weather. A child’s body heats up 3 to 5 times faster than that of an adult, making them more vulnerable to heatstroke, which can have severe consequences. The air inside a vehicle can heat up very quickly — in just about 10 minutes, it can reach dangerous levels for an infant. Partially open windows do not significantly slow the temperature rise inside the car. Therefore, always take your child out of the vehicle when you leave, even if it is just for 5 minutes.

If the car seat stays in the car, during summer it is a good idea to cover it with a sheet to protect it from heating up. Materials in the car seat, especially the metal buckle, can become extremely hot in the sun and may burn the child if placed in an overheated car seat.

Wearing your baby in a carrier is generally a very safe activity. However, like any activity involving infants and small children, it is important to follow basic safety guidelines, regardless of the child’s age.

Check the carrier before every use.

• Inspect the carrier thoroughly for any signs of wear or damage, such as frayed seams, worn fabric, unsafe parts or broken buckles.
• It is best to purchase a carrier from a reputable manufacturer whose products have all the necessary safety certifications and are approved for sale within the European Union.

Use a carrier appropriate for your child’s age.

• If using a soft structured carrier (also called a front pack or "baby backpack"), check whether your child falls within the recommended age group, and if needed, use the required infant insert.

Make sure the carrier provides proper support for the baby’s back and neck, especially while the baby is still very young.

• The baby's legs should not dangle freely in the carrier. Instead, their legs and hips should be in the “M” position (also known as the “frog” position), with legs spread apart and raised, ideally with knees higher than the hips.
• Ergonomic carriers, soft structured carriers, mei-tais, slings, and wraps offer enough support for the baby and comfort for the wearer.

Wear the baby high enough on your body

• The baby should be positioned high enough in the carrier that you can easily kiss the top of their head.
• If the baby is positioned too low, the carrier is likely too loose, which increases the risk of the baby falling out.

Ensure the baby can breathe freely and that their face is not covered.

• An infant, especially one who cannot yet control their neck muscles, may fall asleep in a position where their airways become restricted.
• Keep the baby high enough on your body so you can monitor their breathing and ensure their chin is not resting on their chest.
• Carry the baby in a horizontal position only while breastfeeding, and return them to an upright position after feeding.

Dress according to the weather and avoid overheating the baby.

• Keep in mind that while babywearing, your body temperature (around 37°C) contributes to warming the baby, so there is a risk of overheating.
• Ideally, dress your baby in the same number of clothing layers as you are wearing.

Practice new wraps and carrier techniques in a safe environment.

• When trying out new tying methods or ways of wearing your baby, always practice with another adult present, over a soft surface or close to the ground, until you feel fully confident.
• This is especially important when carrying a baby on your back, where you can’t see them. If you need help, consult a trained babywearing advisor.

• Do not wear your baby in situations where you wouldn’t normally carry them in your arms.
• A baby carrier is not a substitute for a car seat.

Carriers with a narrow base (those that support only the baby’s bottom but not the legs to the knees) are not recommended, because:

• the baby’s legs lack necessary support and the hips are not properly positioned
• there is increased pressure on the spine and crotch area, which can lead to discomfort or even injury to the baby's legs or genitals
• there is insufficient support for the head and neck, and the baby’s back is unnaturally straightened instead of being in a natural C-curve
• these types of carriers are often uncomfortable for the person carrying the baby as well.

To learn more about why babywearing is beneficial and the advantages it offers for both you and your child, read the article “Benefits of Babywearing.”

Extract from the brochure “Safe Childhood”, UNICEF 2020.

When your child is sick, it is important to know who to turn to for help, examination, and treatment—and also how to assess the urgency of the situation.

In cases where your infant is experiencing a life-threatening condition, you must call EMERGENCY SERVICES at 112 or 194. Communication will be easier if you speak English or another major language, or if someone who speaks Croatian or English can call on your behalf.

At the healthcare facility the ambulance takes you to, your child will be examined by the on-call paediatrician.

If you are staying in a reception centre, contact the on-duty medical team for assistance. They will assess the situation, help the child, or organize further care.

Examination by your chosen paediatrician

When your infant is sick and needs to see a paediatrician, you don’t need to make an appointment in advance, but by calling ahead and scheduling a same-day appointment, you can avoid long waits and crowded waiting rooms. It helps if you are prepared to provide the following information:

• your child’s general condition
• the symptoms of the illness
• how long the symptoms have been present
   

Based on this information, a healthcare professional will assess how urgent the examination is and guide you on how to care for your child until the visit. After examining your child, the paediatrician will instruct you on further care, prescribe medication or other treatments if necessary, and arrange a follow-up appointment.

If needed, the paediatrician may refer your child to a specialist (e.g. allergist, gastroenterologist, surgeon) and will issue a referral form. With this form, you can ask the paediatrician to schedule the specialist appointment through the digital system, or you can make the appointment yourself by email or phone.

Children typically wait slightly less time for specialist appointments than adults, but if the case is not urgent, a wait of several months is common. Specialist visits can also be arranged privately, but in that case, you will need to pay for the service.

If necessary, the paediatrician may also refer your child for hospital treatment.

In urgent cases or when your paediatrician is not available, you can go directly to the emergency department of the relevant hospital, where your child will receive the necessary medical care.

Since paediatricians also care for healthy children, it is important to respect your scheduled appointment time and not come during hours reserved for healthy-child visits.

If your child develops a rash along with other symptoms, do not enter the general waiting area with other sick children. Instead, inform the nurse about the rash. You will be placed in an isolation room, as rashes are often a sign of infectious childhood illnesses, and this helps prevent the spread of disease to other patients.

During the summer months, although most parents with young children go outside during the recommended hours—before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.—it is still common to see parents covering a stroller with a cotton muslin cloth or another type of fabric to protect the child from the sun. It might seem natural to believe that by draping a light, breathable fabric over the stroller, you are doing something good—shielding your baby from direct sunlight and creating shade to protect them from the heat.
If you believed this would keep your baby cool, you are mistaken—just like many other parents.

Risk of overheating inside the stroller

While adults can regulate their body temperature well, young children have a less developed ability to do so meaning they can overheat, become dehydrated, and even suffer from heatstroke in a very short time.

A Swedish study highlighted that even covering a stroller with a light fabric can lead to dangerous overheating. A similar test was carried out by Australian journalists and featured in a YouTube video—in just one hour in partial shade (a typical outdoor walk duration), a stroller covered with a muslin cloth heated up to over 45°C (113°F).

Poor air circulation in covered strollers

Beyond the biggest issue—overheating the air under the fabric—if you cover the stroller completely from edge to edge, you block all airflow, creating additional problems. When a stroller is covered this way, continuous air circulation is prevented, and the child ends up breathing the same stale air for an extended period. This can increase the risk of respiratory infections. During the summer, lack of air circulation may also cause stuffiness and excessive sweating.

When the stroller is covered, you can’t see the child

By completely covering the stroller, you create an additional problem. A small child cannot tell you how they feel—they communicate through crying and body language. When you're in a city or on the move with your child in the stroller, surrounding noise might prevent you from clearly hearing your child.

Additionally, overheating and stuffy conditions can cause the child to become lethargic, and they may not have the energy to cry or otherwise signal that they are unwell.

When the stroller is covered, you can't see the child, which means it may take longer for you to notice that something is wrong or that it is time to take the child out of the stroller. Delayed reactions can be very problematic—especially in the summer.

In these conditions, during hot weather, the situation can lead to dehydration in the child.

Signs of dehydration in young children

● Drowsiness (especially in infants)
● Weakness, particularly if the child lacks strength in their arms and legs
● Irritability
● Dry skin
● Few wet diapers
● Concentrated, dark urine
● Sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on the baby’s head)

Signs of overheating and heat exhaustion in children

● Drowsiness
● Irritability
● Damp skin
● Paleness
● Dry mouth, eyes, and/or skin
● Rapid, shallow breathing
● Sweating
● Weakness (the child is tired and lacks energy, responds less to you and to stimuli)
● Excessive thirst
● Vomiting

What to do if you suspect your child is overheated

● Move to a cooler place, preferably an air-conditioned room or deep shade with airflow
● Breastfeed the child or offer another type of fluid
● Cool the child by wiping their face, neck, arms, and legs with a damp cloth or wet wipes
● Check whether the child is behaving normally—do they respond to you, communicate (depending on age), and drink fluids without vomiting?
● If you are concerned—seek medical attention.

What to use instead of a stroller cover

Now that you know it is not safe to cover a stroller—even with breathable fabric—you may be wondering what you can do when it is hot or sunny and you want to take your baby outside.

● Use a stroller made of lightweight, breathable materials, preferably one with side vents or panels that can be opened to allow airflow.
● Make sure your child has access to fresh air. If possible, open additional windows and mesh panels on the stroller, and remove any extra padding, such as cushions on the backrest, to improve air circulation.
● Check on your child frequently and take them out of the stroller regularly.
● Use a stroller sunshade or attachable umbrella that creates shade but still allows for air to flow.
● Avoid going outside between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. if possible. If you must go out, try to walk in shaded areas and keep outdoor time short.
● Dress your child in light clothing, make sure they wear a sun hat, and if they are older than 6 months, apply sunscreen.
● Depending on your child’s age, increase the number of breastfeeding sessions during hot weather, or offer water regularly.

Hospitalization is a stressful event for both the child and the parent. It represents a disruption of daily life, accompanied by uncertainty and difficult emotional states due to separation from familiar surroundings, illness, fear of medical procedures and treatment outcomes, numerous restrictions, changes in routine, and an unfamiliar environment and events.

If, on top of all this, you are in a foreign country that is not entirely familiar to you, the stress is even greater, and it is understandable that you would want to stay with your child during their hospital treatment. However, the option to stay with your child is not always available in Croatian hospitals, and the child’s right to be hospitalized with a trusted adult is not guaranteed by law but rather regulated by the Ordinance on the Conditions and Manner of Exercising Rights from Mandatory Health Insurance. This right often depends on the hospital’s accommodation capacities and the determination of the parents to advocate for the child’s right not to be separated.

In any case, it is useful to know your rights as defined by the Ordinance, and we recommend that you always express your willingness and request to stay with your child in the hospital.

Full-day stay with a hospitalized child

According to the regulation governing the rights of children during hospital treatment, the right to 24-hour accommodation with a hospitalized child—depending on the appropriate accommodation capacity of the contracted hospital in which the child is being treated and based on a recommendation from the child’s chosen physician or the ward physician at the hospital—may be granted to an insured person in the following cases:

1. One parent or guardian of a child under the age of three.
2. One parent or guardian of a child with severe developmental disabilities, regardless of the child's age, provided that the parent or guardian, or the child, possesses an official decision or a report and opinion from a competent assessment authority confirming the disability, in accordance with specific legal provisions.
3. One parent or guardian of a child under the age of 18 diagnosed with cancer or another life-threatening illness, hospitalized in a contracted healthcare institution for the treatment of children with malignant or other life-threatening diseases (such as a clinical hospital centre, clinical hospital, or clinic).
4. One parent or guardian of a child during the child's inpatient medical rehabilitation in a specialized hospital for medical rehabilitation.
    

How is the right to full-day accommodation from points 1 to 3 exercised?

The right is exercised based on a referral for hospital treatment, on which the child’s chosen doctor or the doctor at the contracted hospital where the child is being treated must write the following under the section “Please, request ___”:
“Full-day accommodation for parent/guardian.”

Is full-day accommodation for a parent/guardian free of charge?

If you are employed in Croatia, then you have mandatory health insurance, which provides the following:
An insured person exercising the right to accommodation is not required to participate in the cost of healthcare services. Additionally, a person entitled to salary compensation under the provisions of the Mandatory Health Insurance Act has the right to wage compensation during this time due to temporary inability to work while caring for a child.

If you are not employed but have the status of a person under international or subsidiary protection, you have the same right to accommodation with the child as individuals with mandatory health insurance. However, you are not entitled to salary compensation (since you are not employed).

What if the hospital claims there is no space for a parent to stay?

In addition to staying with the child in multi-bed hospital rooms (where several children and their parents may stay together), the hospital may offer you separate accommodation in hospital apartments (if available). These apartments require an additional fee.

In cases where, according to hospital staff, it is not possible to provide accommodation due to “insufficient capacity”, the parent has no choice but to insist that the hospital find a solution to allow them to stay with the child. Parental experience shows that a solution is usually found once you demonstrate firm determination not to leave your child alone and insist on staying with them—even if that means sleeping on a simple chair—and refuse to be separated from your child

Daytime stay with a hospitalized child

When a 24-hour (overnight) stay with a hospitalized child is not possible or cannot be arranged, the right to daytime stay (not including overnight) may be used (by one insured person – one of the parents or a legal guardian) in the case of:

• a child under seven years of age, or
• a child with severe developmental disabilities, regardless of age.
   

Is daytime stay with a child free of charge?

An insured person who exercises the right to stay is not required to participate in the costs of healthcare services. A parent with mandatory health insurance, who is eligible for salary compensation under the Mandatory Health Insurance Act, is entitled to salary compensation during this time due to temporary inability to work while caring for a sick child.

If you are not employed but have international or subsidiary protection status, you have the same right to stay with your child as persons with mandatory health insurance. However, you are not entitled to salary compensation (since you are not employed).

Is the parental right to daytime stay with a child guaranteed?

Unfortunately, the right to stay (daytime or 24-hour) with a hospitalized child is still granted based on the recommendation of the child’s general practitioner or the ward physician at the hospital, and depends on the available accommodation capacity of the contracted hospital. Therefore, the decision is ultimately left to the healthcare staff, hospital practices, and the goodwill of the institution’s employees.

Parental entitlements during a child’s hospitalization

Financial benefits available for caring for a sick child are defined by the Mandatory Health Insurance Act and can only be exercised if the parent is employed and insured under mandatory health insurance.

Parents’s rights in case of their child’s hospitalization:

1.      Right to salary compensation during temporary inability to work due to care for an insured person – the child of an employed or self-employed parent

A parent or legal guardian who has been granted the right to full-day or daytime stay is not required to cover healthcare costs. In accordance with the law, they are entitled to paid sick leave for child care and salary compensation.

2.      Right to reimbursement of accommodation costs for one parent or the person caring for the child during the child's hospital treatment

If the hospital lacks the capacity to provide full-day accommodation with the child, a parent or guardian is entitled to a reimbursement of accommodation costs per day of hospitalization in the amount of 6% of the budgetary base (as defined by the Croatian State Budget Implementation Act for the current year), provided that their residence or stay is 30 km or more away from the hospital where the child is receiving treatment.

3.      Right to reimbursement of transport costs related to the use of healthcare services under mandatory health insurance

Children under the age of 18 are entitled to reimbursement of transportation costs regardless of the distance, which otherwise must be 50 kilometers or more between their place of residence or stay and the location where they are referred for healthcare services. The condition is that they are referred to a different location for medical treatment and that the facility or private healthcare provider they are sent to is the nearest one capable of providing the necessary healthcare service, because the appropriate medical care, based on their health condition, cannot be obtained from a closer healthcare provider contracted with the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) for that type of care. This right to reimbursement of transportation costs also applies to the person designated as the child’s escort.

The same applies to children over the age of 18 who are fully and permanently unable to live and work independently and are insured as family members under the mandatory health insurance scheme.

Bathing is fun and pleasant for children—even for very young babies. However, keep in mind that small children can drown in a very small amount of water (just a few centimeters deep) in a very short amount of time. Therefore, constant supervision by parents or other adults is one of the basic safety rules and crucial for preventing drowning in young children. Never leave a child under the age of 5 alone in the bath. Not even for a second. Never leave an older child in charge of supervising a child under the age of 5 during bath time.

A very small baby who cannot yet sit up independently is usually bathed in a baby bathtub, which should:

● be made of thick plastic that will stay firm even under the weight of water
● have a wide, stable base with built-in non-slip protection to prevent it from tipping over if you lean your forearms on it
● have rounded edges and corners.

Additional bathing safety tips for children

To further increase your child’s safety during bath time, follow these tips:

● Bath rings and special seats designed for family bathtubs are often unstable and can tip over along with the child.
● Do not use tubs with soft, foam-filled inserts, as the child could tear off pieces and swallow them.
● Prepare everything you need for bathing ahead of time and keep it within arm’s reach so you never need to move away from the child. It is practical if the baby tub has slots or compartments for storing washcloths, shampoo, and other items.
● Empty the water as soon as the child is finished bathing.
● Older babies who can sit up on their own can continue using a baby tub (if it is intended for that age group—check the instructions) or can switch to a family bathtub. If using a family bathtub, always place a non-slip mat where the child can sit or use special bath seats designed for use in large tubs.
● Be aware of distractions and minimize them. Set your phone to silent and leave it outside the bathroom. If for any reason you must leave the bathroom or bathing area, always take your child with you.
● Fill the tub with only as much water as is needed for bathing and play. For very small babies, this is about 10 cm of water. For children who can sit steadily, fill the tub up to their belly button when seated. This is enough for both bathing and fun.
● Make sure the child doesn’t reach for the faucet to prevent them from turning on the water.

Preventing scalds from hot water

Young children have extremely sensitive skin, meaning they can quickly suffer burns from hot water. A safe and comfortable water temperature is 37–38°C. Always check the water temperature with a thermometer or your elbow—never your palm.

The safest way to prevent scalds from hot water is to set your water heater to a maximum of 50°C. You will still need to mix it with cold water, but the maximum water temperature will not be high enough to injure a child.

● Keep the child away from the water until you are sure the temperature is right.
● Always start by filling the tub with cold water. Then add hot water, mixing it to achieve an even temperature.
● Once the tub is filled, run cold water briefly to ensure no hot water remains in the faucet.

Extract from the brochure “Safe Childhood”, UNICEF 2020.

When choosing and using cots, there are some safety guidelines you should follow to protect your baby from injury.

When purchasing a cot, pay particular attention to the following:

● the bars of the cot should be no more than 6 cm apart
● the mattress must fit snugly against the sides of the cot, with no gaps
● choose the firmest mattress possible
● the corners of the cot should be the same height as or higher than the sides.

If you are using a second-hand cot, follow these instructions:

● Avoid cots older than 10 years, as they may not meet modern safety standards. Cots made before 1978 may have been painted with lead-based paint, so a family heirloom cradle or cot may not be the safest choice
● Check the condition of the second-hand cot: stability, whether any parts are missing, the condition of each component, and whether missing parts can be replaced. Pay special attention to the spacing of the bars and any decorative cut-outs where a child’s limb could get stuck. Ideally, the cot should come with assembly instructions

Additional precautions for safer sleep

● Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
● Do not place cot bumpers (soft, padded barriers with ties), soft toys, pillows, or decorative cushions in the cot due to the risk of suffocation.
● Do not put your baby to sleep in the cot with a bib or necklace around their neck.
● Do not hang toys from the cot using strings or cords.
● Do not position the cot near a window, curtains, or other furniture and objects the child could pull on.
● A mobile above the cot should be out of the baby’s reach.
● Remove the mobile once the baby starts pushing up on their hands and rolling over.
● Choose bedding and clothing made from natural materials (cotton, merino wool, silk, linen) instead of synthetic ones (acrylic, polyester, rayon, acetate, and nylon), which are treated with many chemicals.
● Check regularly that all parts of the cot are securely fastened.
● Keep up to date with product recalls for baby equipment and products.
● Do not put your baby to sleep on sofas, couches, or armchairs, as they could fall and be injured. This is especially dangerous with soft furniture due to the risk of suffocation.
● Never leave your baby alone on a bed without supervision.
● Babies should not sleep in an overheated room or be overdressed.
● Do not smoke in the room where your baby sleeps, or in any room where the child spends time.

Once a cot with bars is no longer needed, some children will continue sleeping in the same room as their parents, while others will sleep in a separate children's room in a bed without sides.

Extract from the brochure “Safe childhood”, UNICEF 2020.

Even very young children can be affected by stress—not only in situations that are expected to be highly stressful, but also in everyday life. The most common causes of stress in infants are related to unmet needs, overstimulation from the environment, certain health conditions and discomforts, and the emotional state of the mother or primary caregiver.

Failure to recognize stress in an infant and to respond in a way that helps the baby can lead to compromised health, a reduced sense of security, and some researchers point out that continuous exposure to high levels of stress can negatively affect brain development and the immune system.

That is why it is important to understand the sources of stress in infants, how they express stress, and how to help.

Sources of stress in infants

Although many circumstances and conditions can cause stress in an infant, it is important to understand that short-term exposure to stress and stressful situations is not as harmful to the child as continuous or repeated exposure.

1.   Prenatal stress

If a pregnant mother is continuously under high stress for an extended period of time, it can affect the child she is carrying as well as the pregnancy itself, leading to problems such as premature birth, low birth weight, and a range of health issues in the newborn.
On the other hand, short-term, occasional exposure to stressful situations has no effect on the fetus.

2.   Unmet needs of the infant

The basic needs of a newborn or infant—for food, care, protection, and attachment—are met by the mother and other caregivers. If these basic needs go unmet, it can result in the development of toxic stress, which can have a long-lasting negative impact on the child.

In high-stress situations such as war, life-saving emergencies, or fleeing from conflict, it is very easy to lose sight of some of the infant’s needs. That is why it is extremely important to take care of yourself and protect your own emotional and mental health as soon as possible, so you can focus on your child and have the emotional capacity to recognize the child’s needs. For some mothers, focusing on the child and the child’s needs—once they are physically removed from immediate danger—actually helps lower their own stress levels.

3.   Frustration as part of the growth and development process

Numerous developmental processes that take place intensively during the first year of life cause stress in infants. For an infant, the environment is constantly changing; they become increasingly aware of their surroundings and the stimuli they are exposed to, and all these sensations can be overwhelming for the child.

During growth and maturation, some of the changes may cause discomfort and pain, which are also sources of stress in infancy.

4.   Intense emotional expression by adults, shouting and arguments

Continuous raised voices, especially in the form of arguments, quarrelling, and shouting, are harmful to an infant and cause high levels of stress.
In such environments, the issue is not only the overwhelming stimulation from the surroundings, but also the mechanism through which the infant’s emotional state aligns with that of the mother (or another primary caregiver).

Even at the earliest age, an infant tries to make sense of everything they hear and see around them. They initially experience most of their environment by following and observing the reactions of their parents—primarily the one who provides the most care (usually the mother).

When parents experience highly stressful situations, the infant absorbs those emotions and experiences some of the stress as well. They see the mother's facial expressions, hear the tone of her voice—sadness, anger, despair, happiness—and respond by adjusting to her emotional state.
That is why it is extremely important to be aware of your mental state and to find healthy ways to cope with stress. It is also important to avoid discussing topics that cause you significant distress and anxiety in front of your child, in order to minimise the impact of your stress on them.

All parents experience different stressful situations from time to time. It is important to remember that constantly present stress and fear can negatively affect your child.
Bonding with your child and taking care of yourself during highly stressful periods is important for both you and your baby.

Read on to learn how to recognise the signs of stress in infants and how to help.

Men’s bodies respond to parenting in ways remarkably similar to women’s, and their parenting style can influence children just as much – and sometimes even more – than that of mothers. Research into the parent-child relationship has shown that a father's love can sometimes have a greater impact on a child than a mother's love. The way parents relate to their child, whether they express emotions and how they do so, as well as how they care for the child, has a profound influence on the child’s development.

Insights from the rapidly growing fields of early childhood science and early brain development highlight the lifelong positive impact fathers can have by being actively involved from the earliest stages of their child’s life. The benefits for children go far beyond their early years!

Parental acceptance and rejection shape a child’s behaviour. Parental rejection can lead to low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, or a negative worldview. This applies to both parents, though in some cases, the father's influence is even more significant than the mother's. For instance, the level of acceptance and love a child feels from their father more strongly predicts whether they will feel safe, happy, and satisfied with life in adulthood – even more so than the love and acceptance felt from their mother.

People whose fathers were actively involved in their childhood are more likely to build successful careers, enjoy stable and lasting marriages, and cope with stress more effectively. On the other hand, when a father is emotionally absent and fails to form a psychological and emotional bond with his children, it can have a long-term negative effect.

Is fatherly care natural?

During their partner’s pregnancy – and especially after the baby is born – men experience hormonal changes. It has been shown that caring for a baby, and even just looking at, smelling, or hearing a newborn, can further alter a father’s hormone levels, in much the same way that sport, work, or achievement can raise testosterone levels.

Hormones help men become more sensitive and better at recognising their children's needs. Some researchers believe these findings challenge outdated stereotypes about men – they are not just aggressive or rough, but capable of feeling a full range of emotions.

Studies show that male hormones help develop tenderness and attachment, suggesting that gentleness and care are a natural part of being male.

Many men grew up in families where mothers and fathers had clearly divided roles. Today, many of them wish to be more involved, more emotional, and more deeply connected with their children. Even if they didn’t have that kind of father figure growing up, it doesn’t mean they can’t become one. Every moment spent with a child is a chance to build a relationship in which closeness and emotional expression are just as natural as strength.

If you’re expecting a baby or have just become a dad, read How to be an involved father from the very beginning and Building the bond between father and baby during the first year.
If your child is already a bit older, explore:

Building the bond between father and child during the second year,
Building the bond between father and child during the third year,
and Building the bond between father and child after the first three years.

Note:
The role of the father is incredibly important for a child's development, as the presence of a loving and supportive dad brings numerous benefits to a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive growth. However, if the biological father is not present, other father figures – such as grandfathers, uncles, godfathers, or close family friends – can offer the same positive impact, provided they are involved, consistent, and caring in their relationship with the child.
For simplicity, we use the word “dad” throughout the text, but we are referring equally to all father figures – biological fathers, stepfathers, guardians, adoptive fathers, or any adult male who is actively present in the child’s life.

In Croatia, health care for children is organized within the framework of the compulsory health insurance system, ensuring special protection for all children, regardless of their own or their parents' or guardians' status. Every child has the right to comprehensive health care, equivalent to that provided to Croatian children. 

Children's health care rights include access to primary health care (with a paediatrician or family medicine doctor), specialist consultative health care, hospital health care, medications defined in the basic and supplementary lists of the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO), dental aids as defined in the basic and additional lists of HZZO, orthopaedic and other aids included in the basic and additional lists of HZZO.

Children are exempt from contributing to health care costs. The HZZO fully covers all health care expenses for children up to the age of 18, except for medications from the HZZO’s supplementary list and orthopaedic or other medical aids from the additional list.

Children’s health care is provided by paediatricians, typically until the child reaches school age. Paediatric care includes the following services:

• Health promotion and disease prevention
• Diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation
• Other measures

Paediatrics is the branch of medicine focused on children and their families. Its primary goal is to improve children's overall health and ensure healthy growth and development.

 
Health promotion and disease prevention 

Routine check-ups and vaccinations

A key aspect of paediatric care is routine check-ups and vaccinations, which serve as the main measures for disease prevention. During the first year of life, regular check-ups with a paediatrician are more frequent. As the child grows, these visits become less frequent and are often scheduled alongside vaccinations according to the national immunization schedule.   

The purpose of systematic examinations is to monitor growth and development, detect potential health issues early, prevent diseases through vaccination, and support parents in fostering their child’s emotional and intellectual well-being. 

Preventive dental visits

Once a child's teeth begin to emerge, preventive dental visits should start. These early visits help the child become accustomed to dental check-ups, understand the importance of oral hygiene, and reduce any anxiety related to dental care. 

Diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation

Beyond routine medical care—such as diagnosing illnesses, referring children to specialists, and prescribing treatments—Croatia’s health system also provides rehabilitation services.

Children with growth and developmental delays or health conditions are entitled to specialized care to help address these challenges through early intervention services.

Unfortunately, Croatia has not yet fully established an integrated early childhood intervention system. While there are many initiatives and service providers in the health, education, social, non-governmental, and private sectors, these services are not well-coordinated. As a result, parents often have to make considerable efforts to access these services. 

Caring for a child's health and maintaining personal hygiene is an essential part of childcare. An important aspect of this care is ensuring good oral health and hygiene.
From the moment the first tooth appears, maintaining oral hygiene is essential. A crucial and unavoidable part of oral health care is regular visits to the dentist. Since visiting the dentist can be a source of stress and fear for many children and adults, it is crucial to familiarize children with dental visits before any dental problems arise.

Dentists in Croatia belong to primary health care and their services for children are mostly covered by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund. You can choose a dentist for your child in the same way as you would select other primary healthcare providers, regardless of your current status in Croatia (whether you are an asylum seeker, have been granted asylum, or enjoy subsidiary protection). 

Children’s teeth can start decaying early because baby teeth have less mineralized enamel, making them more susceptible to bacteria. It is crucial to keep milk teeth healthy so that each new tooth, first baby and then permanent, emerges into a clean oral environment free of decay. If cavities do appear, the affected tooth should be treated. A decayed baby tooth can cause pain just like a permanent one, and it plays a crucial role in preserving space for the permanent tooth that will replace it. 

When should a child first visit the dentist

A child's first dental visit is recommended before the age of two, ideally when their teeth are still healthy. After that, regular check-ups should be scheduled in consultation with the dentist. 
During these visits, the child will get to know the dentist and the dental equipment in the clinic. Routine visits without procedures or treatments help reduce fear and make future dental visits easier. 
It is essential for parents to inform the dentist in advance that they are bringing the child for a familiarization visit.

How to prepare your child for a dental visit

Let your child know about the upcoming visit and explain what to expect in a simple, reassuring way. If they are old enough to express their thoughts and feelings, give them space to do so without judgment—it is normal for children to feel a bit nervous or anxious.
Reading picture books or looking at illustrations about visiting the dentist can help make the experience feel familiar. You can also turn it into a game by role-playing as a dentist, making the visit seem fun and exciting.

If you have your own fears about dental visits, be honest but reassuring. Let your child know that while check-ups and treatments might not be your favourite thing, they are important for staying healthy. Avoid sharing any negative or painful past experiences, as this could make them more anxious.

A great way to ease their worries is to take them along when you go for a check-up or minor procedure (with the dentist’s approval). Seeing you go through the process calmly can help them feel more comfortable. Over time, they may even be eager to sit in the dentist’s chair and show off their teeth! 
How to prepare your child for a dental procedure
If your child's first visit is due to a cavity that needs treatment, they should be prepared for the possibility of discomfort.
Do not tell your child that the procedure will be painless or "nothing to worry about."  Instead, provide realistic expectations in a calm and reassuring way. Children find comfort in predictability, so using simple, reassuring language to explain what will happen during the procedure, where you will be while they are in the dentist’s office, and what they will do afterward can help ease their anxiety.

Even if you don’t typically use rewards for good behaviour, you might want to offer a small incentive for their cooperation with the dentist during the treatment.

Important to remember!

Regular preventive check-ups, where the child becomes familiar with the dentist, clinic, and equipment, will help them feel comfortable and build trust. This will make future treatments easier if they become necessary.

If you are staying in an asylum seeker reception centre, the easiest way to arrange a preventive dental visit for your child is with the help of the medical team responsible for the residents' healthcare.

As your child grows, you become more familiar with their usual behaviour patterns. You can easily recognize common illnesses, your child communicates more clearly about their pain and discomfort, and you already know how to ease most symptoms at home.

This allows you to manage mild illnesses independently using home remedies such as lukewarm baths, tea, soup, nasal drops, and balms to ease breathing. Your home medicine cabinet likely contains medications to help with fever, cough, and other minor ailments. 

When common symptoms appear (often due to viral infections), closely monitor your child in the following hours, ensure they get extra rest, stay hydrated, and relieve discomfort as usual.

Pay attention to how intense the symptoms are—if your child is more distressed than usual, if their fever spikes unusually high, or if it doesn’t respond to typical fever-reducing methods. These observations will help you decide when to call your child’s doctor for advice or when urgent medical care is needed.

Symptoms that require immediate medical attention

Fever

In most mild illnesses, a child becomes more active once the fever is lowered, which is a reassuring sign. However, seek urgent medical help if the fever is accompanied by severe chills or shivering, rash, drowsiness or difficulty waking up, weakness, unusual stillness, laboured or rapid breathing, a persistent choking cough, repeated vomiting and/or complete loss of appetite.

Subglottic laryngitis – croup

Croup is a viral infection affecting the vocal cords and trachea. In croup, hoarseness develops, and breathing often produces a distinctive "scraping" or "growling" sound, particularly during coughing or crying. The sound resembles the barking of a dog. A child with croup may struggle for breath and therefore appear restless and frightened. 

Croup is an illness that affects children between three months and six years of age and typically occurs at night. It is more common in boys than in girls and is most frequently seen in the autumn and spring. A child's crying is a good sign -  if they can cry, they can breathe.

Seek urgent medical help if:

• breathing difficulty is noticeable even at rest
• the child gasps for air (raising their chin, opening their mouth, flaring nostrils, using neck, chest and abdominal muscles to breathe)
• the child is extremely restless and cannot find a comfortable breathing position
• the child is unable to cry or make sounds
• skin appears pale or bluish
• the child complains of severe throat pain (refuses to swallow even a sip of liquid, cries out in pain
• the child cannot tilt their head forward
• fever exceeds 38.5 °C
• heart rate exceeds 160 beats per minute
• the child loses consciousness
• the child appears very sick despite minimal breathing difficulty
• you, as a parent, feel extremely alarmed.

If someone can drive you to a doctor within 15 minutes, sit with your child in the back seat, comfort them with soft talking or singing, and ensure fresh air circulation. If no transport is available, call emergency medical services.

Diarrhoea

Call emergency services immediately if your child lies motionless or is too weak to stand.

Contact a doctor or visit an emergency unit immediately if your child:

• appears seriously ill
• shows signs of dehydration (e.g., no urination for over 8 hours, no tears while crying, very dry mouth)
• has blood in their stool
• has a fever over 40°C
• suffers from abdominal pain lasting over 2 hours
• vomits more than 3 times
• has more than 8 bowel movements in 8 hours
• has severe diarrhoea possibly caused by medication (e.g., antibiotics).

If symptoms are not severe, ensure adequate fluid intake and light food. Do not force your child to eat if they refuse. 
If breastfeeding, continue to nurse.

Severe allergic reactions

An allergic reaction may cause hives (red, itchy skin), swelling of the face or tongue, sudden hoarseness, breathing difficulty, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Call emergency services immediately and follow their instructions.

Head injuries

If a child loses consciousness, even briefly, or vomits after a head injury, seek immediate medical attention at an emergency hospital or call emergency services and follow their instructions.

Headache

A sudden, severe headache, especially if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, vision disturbances, or altered consciousness, requires urgent medical attention.

Open wounds and bleeding

Seek emergency care if the wound is large, deep, bleeding heavily, located on the head or near the eyes, or caused by an open fracture.

Whenever you notice a disruption in vital functions, suspect a serious illness, or if your child is in severe pain (crying inconsolably), seek immediate medical help. Call emergency medical services (194) and follow their instructions.
If you are staying in an asylum seekers' shelter, you can seek medical assistance from the shelter’s medical team instead of emergency services. A doctor will examine the child and arrange transportation to a healthcare facility for further check-ups if needed.

In Croatia, systematic health check-ups for children and adolescents are part of primary healthcare and are fully covered by basic health insurance. Parents do not need to pay for these examinations when conducted by their chosen paediatrician or family doctor. These check-ups fall under preventive medicine and are aimed at early disease detection. 

The main goals of a routine check-up are to monitor a child's growth and development, prevent illnesses, identify potential health risks, and enable early diagnosis and treatment. During the check-up, parents can also receive advice on improving their child's emotional and intellectual development. This is a great opportunity to ask the paediatrician any questions or address any concerns about the child's growth, development, or overall health. Routine check-ups are often combined with vaccinations or used to schedule upcoming immunizations according to the national vaccination calendar.

For children without major health concerns who are developing normally, routine check-ups are scheduled according to the Plan and Program of Health Protection Measures (currently valid until 2026). At present, check-ups are conducted at 18 months, three years, and five years of age, after which preventive care is transferred to school medicine. 

The specific procedures performed during routine check-ups vary depending on the child's age but generally include:

• measuring height, weight, and calculating Body Mass Index (BMI)
• measuring blood pressure
• vision assessment, including screening for colour blindness
• hearing assessment
• screening for scoliosis (spinal curvature, forward-bending test)
• screening for goitre (enlarged thyroid)
• assessment of sexual maturity (using Tanner staging)
• auscultation of the heart and lungs
• evaluating behaviour, socialization, and adaptation (if the child attends kindergarten)
• assessing mental health.

During the check-up, the paediatrician will also ask about the child's (and family) dietary habits and lifestyle, as these factors can influence their physical and mental well-being. The doctor may provide recommendations and identify potential risk factors for disease development.

If any developmental concerns or health issues—such as vision or hearing impairments—are detected, the child will be referred for specialist examinations. Depending on the findings, follow-up monitoring, rehabilitation, additional therapy, or assistive devices may be recommended.

Children with chronic conditions (e.g. epilepsy, asthma, cerebral palsy, psychosis...) will have more frequent check-ups with their paediatrician, family doctor, specialists, and other healthcare professionals, ensuring continuous monitoring and support for their growth, development, and overall well-being. 

As parents, the safety of our children is always our top priority. While we hope never to face a situation where our child goes missing, it is important to know that help is available. In Croatia, as in the rest of Europe, there is a single helpline number for missing children – 116 000. This helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and provides support to parents and families during difficult times. In Croatia, it is managed by the Centre for Missing and Abused Children.

What is 116 000?

116 000 is a free, confidential, and anonymous helpline dedicated to reporting the disappearance of a child and providing assistance to families in such situations. The helpline is part of the European network Missing Children Europe, ensuring that your call can be answered quickly and effectively, no matter where in Europe you are located.

When should you call 116 000?

You should call 116 000:

• Immediately after noticing that your child is missing. Every moment counts, and a quick response can be crucial in finding the child.
• If you suspect that your child is in danger or has been abducted.
• If you have any information about a missing child, even if you are unsure whether the information is relevant.
   

Who answers the calls?

The 116 000 helpline is staffed by trained professionals – psychologists, social workers, and other experts – who have experience working with missing children and their families. They can provide:

• Emotional support: They understand what you’re going through and are there to listen and comfort you.
• Practical advice: They will help you make an action plan, advise you on who to contact, and guide you on how to behave in this situation.
• Information: They will give you details about legal procedures, options for finding your child, and other relevant topics.
   

What to expect when you call 116 000?

When you call 116 000, the professionals will talk to you to gather the necessary information. Be prepared to answer questions such as:

• About the child: Name, age, appearance, clothing worn at the time of disappearance, identifying features (e.g., birthmarks, scars).
• About the disappearance: Where the child was last seen, who they were with, what they were doing, and any circumstances that might have led to the disappearance.
• About you: Your name, contact information, and your relationship with the child.
   

Important to know:

The 116 000 helpline is free of charge for all callers.
Your calls are confidential and anonymous, if you wish.
The professionals on the 116 000 helpline are there to help and support you, regardless of the circumstances of the disappearance.
 

Additional advice:

Prevention: Talk to your children about safety. Teach them not to talk to strangers, not to get into cars with unknown people, and always to tell you where they’re going and with whom.
Photos: Take regular photos of your children, as an up-to-date photo can be extremely helpful in case of disappearance.
Documents: Keep your children's personal documents (birth certificate, passport) in a safe place.
 

In difficult moments, the Centre for Missing and Abused Children is there for you. Don’t hesitate to call and seek help through the free helpline number 116 000.

The internet is full of opportunities but also risks. To protect our children, it is important to understand the potential dangers and take proactive steps.

1. Open communication is key

• Talk regularly: Don’t wait for a problem to arise. Have ongoing conversations about the internet, just like you talk about school or friends.
• Ask questions: Show interest in your child’s online activities. Ask which websites they visit, who they communicate with, what games they play, etc.
• Explain the risks: Talk about dangers such as inappropriate content, online bullying, identity theft, and misinformation.
• Be honest: Admit that you don’t know everything about the internet and that you’re learning together.

2. Setting rules and boundaries

• Time spent online: Set limits on how much time your child can spend on the internet, taking into account their age, school obligations, and other activities.
• Content: Talk about the types of content appropriate for their age and establish rules about what they are allowed to watch, listen to, or play.
• Social media: If your child uses social networks, make sure they understand privacy and safety rules. Teach them not to share personal information with strangers and to be cautious when posting photos and other content.
• Online shopping: If your child has access to online purchases, set clear rules about what they are allowed to buy and how much they can spend.

Sign a family agreement:
https://cnzd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Obiteljski-ugovor_sigurnost-na-internetu-Put-oporavka-2024.pdf
(available in Croatian)

3. Parental control tools

Built-in options: Most devices (computers, smartphones, tablets) have built-in parental control options. Explore these features and adjust them to your needs.
Third-party apps: There are many apps offering advanced features such as content filtering, activity tracking, screen time limits, and device location. Some popular ones include:

• Google Family Link: A free app that allows parents to monitor their child’s activity on Android devices, set screen time limits, and approve app downloads.
• Qustodio: A paid app with advanced features including web content filtering, call and message tracking, and geolocation.
• Net Nanny: A paid app offering content filtering, time limits, and monitoring of social media activity.
• Game consoles: All major gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo) have built-in parental control features. Learn about them and adjust the settings accordingly.

4. Education and setting an example

• Learn together: The internet is constantly changing, so it is important to stay informed about new trends and threats.
• Be a role model: Children learn by example. Show them how to use the internet responsibly and safely.
• Stay informed: Follow websites like https://www.csi.hr/ where you can find useful information and safety tips.

5. What to do If problems arise

• Save evidence: If your child experiences online bullying or discomfort, save the evidence (screenshots, messages).
• Report the issue: Talk to your child and report the problem to the appropriate institutions (school, police, Safer Internet Centre).
• Seek help: If necessary, seek professional help (psychologists, social workers, etc.)

Remember, internet safety is a complex topic. Talk with your children, be present and informed, and use the tools available to you.

Today, technology—and with it, screens of various types delivering various content—is an unavoidable part of childhood from a very early age. While technology can make adult life easier, it is not harmless unless we are aware of the risks it brings and learn how to use it moderately and in positive ways. Teaching children how to use screens responsibly starts early—through our own example and a consciuos effort to ensure screens don't take on the role of a digital babysitter.

To reduce the risks and potential negative effects of excessive screen time on a child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development (such as attention problems, aggression, sleep disturbances, etc.), experts recommend limiting screen time for babies and young children.

When deciding how much screen time is appropriate, consider the following:

• For babies up to 18 months old, experts recommend no screen time at all.
• For children aged 18–24 months, the only acceptable screen use is video chatting with family members.
• The World Health Organization recommends that children aged 2 to 4 years should not spend more than one hour per day in front of screens.
• To support healthy development, for every amount of time a child spends in front of a screen, they should spend twice as much time playing outdoors.
  (For example, if a 3- or 4-year-old spends an hour at the park, up to 30 minutes of screen time per day is considered acceptable, including TV time.)
   

How to make screen time useful and educational:

• Be present with your child and talk about what you’re watching. This could mean playing an educational game together or discussing the things you see on screen.
• Research recommendations for games, apps, and animated shows before introducing them to your child. Look into the appropriate age rating, check for violence or difficult topics, and choose only content recommended by trusted sources that is age-appropriate.
• Provide plenty of screen-free activities every day. Free play is essential for developing creativity, so ensure your child has lots of opportunities for unstructured play. Mealtimes and bedtime should also remain screen-free. It is equally important that adults caring for the child avoid checking their phones or looking at screens during these times, so the moments remain reserved for conversation and family bonding.
• Use screens to support connection, such as showing your child family photos, or while the child is asleep.
   

The same parenting principles apply to screen time as to any other area:

The parent sets the example, establishes boundaries, and talks to the child about them. In the 21st century, media literacy is essential. You can find more information about choosing appropriate media content for children on the portal: medijskapismenost.hr
 

Extract from the brochure "Safe Childhood", UNICEF 2020.

Even if your child has outgrown the infant carrier ("egg shell" seat), it is still recommended to transport the child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible—ideally up to the age of four. To ensure a child’s safety during car rides, it is crucial that the car seat is appropriate for the child’s age and motor development, properly installed in the car, and that the child is correctly secured in it. Therefore, never transport a child in a forward-facing seat if they weigh less than 10 kg, are under 15 months of age, and cannot walk independently.

How to choose a car seat for your child

Before purchasing or using a second-hand car seat, check the following:

• The car seat has a valid certification label (R44/04 or R129)
• The car seat includes a label with pictorial instructions for installation
• The car seat has all its original parts
• The car seat is within its usable life span (look for the manufacture date on the plastic shell; expiration info is in the manual)
• The seat has been tested in a car and can be installed correctly
• The seat has not been involved in a car accident.

Only a functional car seat, within its expiry date and not previously involved in a crash (if you are borrowing or getting a used car seat), will properly protect your child. 

Proper car seat installation

Children over 15 months of age may be transported in either rear-facing or forward-facing car seats. What is most important is that the car seat is installed exactly as instructed by the manufacturer.

Basic rules are always the same:

• The car seat is positioned according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• The seat can be installed using one of two systems, depending on the vehicle and the seat

○ 3-point seat belt system – the seat belt should pass through the blue guides on the seat and be tightly secured so the seat doesn’t move more than 2 cm side-to-side where the lap belt passes through, or
○ Isofix system – the connectors are latched into the hooks between the seat back and base, and either the top tether or support leg is properly installed, with all indicators showing green.

A small number of car seats for this age group require both systems—Isofix and the car's seatbelt—especially those that use their own harness system up to 25 kg. Always check your seat’s manual to be sure.

Properly securing your child

When placing a child into the car seat, make sure thir bottom is positioned in the deepest part of the seat.

The harness straps must not be twisted at any point and should be threaded through the slots at shoulder level or slightly below for rear-facing seats, or at shoulder level or slightly above for forward-facing seats. Only original pads may be placed on the straps.

Once the straps are connected at a single point and buckled into the crotch buckle, they must be tightened so that only one finger can fit between the strap and the child’s collarbone — in other words, you should not be able to pinch the strap lengthwise.

The headrest should be adjusted so that the top is just below the midpoint of the child's ears. 

During both hot and cold weather, the same safety principles apply as for infants.

Outgrowing the car seat

Bent legs in a rear-facing position or a head slightly above the headrest in a forward-facing seat are not signs that the car seat has been outgrown.

Instead, pay attention to the height and weight limits stated on the car seat. A child has outgrown the seat if:

• They exceed the weight limit listed on the car seat
• They exceed the height limit listed on the car seat
• The harness straps come out from below the child’s shoulders and cannot be raised any further, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines
   

If the child meets any of these criteria and has outgrown the seat, they should be at least 4 years old and weigh at least 15 kg before transitioning to a booster seat with a backrest. If they are not yet at that stage, look for a car seat with an own harness system that supports a higher weight or height limit until the child meets the minimum requirements for a booster.

If you are unsure about the proper installation or use of your car seat, the organization Roda can help! Contact us via email at autosjedalice@roda.hr.

Expressing an emotional response to a situation—whether it be anger, sadness, or happiness—is a matter of upbringing and learning; it is acquired and shaped in early childhood. Overwhelmed by fatigue and the demands of the child, as well as work, finances, and existential issues, parents may interpret a child’s behavior as intentionally defiant, naughty, or manipulative. In such moments, adults may resort to physical punishment—often because they don’t know a better way.

Physical punishment is never justified

— it is extremely harmful to the child and is legally punishable. The outcome of physical punishment is never better than what could be achieved through conversation or patience. Conversation requires a great deal of effort and self-control on your part, but in the long run, it will help your child manage challenging situations and their emotions more effectively.
Physical punishment, i.e., hitting a child for the purpose of discipline, not only causes physical harm, but also prevents the development of self-regulation, leads to low self-esteem and self-confidence, and causes a loss of trust, which may result in the child not turning to you in critical situations out of fear (e.g., if they accidentally turn on the stove and can’t turn it off), along with a range of emotional and behavioural problems.

When you find yourself in a situation where it seems like your child is being deliberately defiant, challenging, or “naughty,” try asking yourself the following questions:

1. How are you reacting? Were you preoccupied with something else until that moment, and now you are giving them attention? Is the child just trying to connect with you?
2. How angry are you in this situation? Why are you angry? What are you feeling? Who are you really angry at—the child, yourself, or someone else?
3. Do you feel the eyes of others on you? Are you feeling ashamed of your child’s behaviour? Are you actually trying to punish yourself?
4. How hard is this for the child? How do you react when you are extremely angry, tired, when nothing is going right, and when others don’t respect you? Are your expectations of the child higher than those you have of yourself?
    

What can you do instead of hitting your child?

When you feel like you can’t take it anymore and feel the urge to react physically—stop yourself.

• Count to 10, remove yourself from the situation, go briefly into another room until you calm down, but don’t leave the child alone for too long.
• Try to understand the situation you are in, reflect on why it frustrates you so much and why you think there’s no other way to handle it.
• Tell your child that you are there for them, that you love them regardless of how they feel, and that you see they are having a hard time. This will also help reduce your own anger. Reassure the child that you will not leave them, no matter how they behave. Often children test boundaries as a way to manage their own fear of abandonment.
• Tell yourself it’s okay to feel overwhelmed if that is how you feel. Because if it is hard for you to control yourself, you can surely understand why it is hard for your child too.
• Finally, seek professional help. Physical punishment often brings feelings of shame due to loss of control, which leads adults to hide their reactions and prevents them from seeking help. Professionals are there to listen and support you without judgment—if you are willing to work on yourself. Ultimately, both you and your child will be happier.
• Parenting workshops such as “Growing Up Together” are an example of professional support services and peer exchange in parent groups, offered by kindergartens and family centers throughout Croatia. If your child attends a kindergarten in Croatia, ask whether Growing Up Together workshops are offered and how you might get involved.
• Remember—physical punishment is always a problem for the adult to resolve, a behavior the adult needs to change, and only the adult has the power to change it.
   

Exract from the brochure “Safe Childhood”, UNICEF 2020.

At this age, a child begins to walk, and soon after, to run, which expands the environment with which they interact. The way they see and experience the world changes—they are increasingly included as active participants in the structure of daily routines. They communicate more clearly with their surroundings, expressing their wishes and some needs. However, keep in mind that they are still a very small child in a big world. For the first time, they are encountering emotions such as separation anxiety, sadness, and anger—even though they neither know how to name them nor understand why they feel them.

While the previous period was important for getting to know the environment, parents, extended family, food, and their own body, this stage is crucial for helping the child get to know their inner world—emotions, thoughts, and reactions.

The father's role in teaching the child how to cope with emotions is extremely important, whether the child is a boy or a girl.

Mothers and fathers often react differently to the same situations. A mother may respond with withdrawal and silence, while a father may raise his voice (or vice versa), even though both are feeling anger. Explain to your child which emotion you are experiencing, what triggered it, and how you're responding. This helps your child learn that there are multiple possible reactions to the same emotion.

Continue explaining the world around them and use as many different words as possible to describe one object—this will help expand the child’s vocabulary (even if the words are not yet spoken, they are being stored). Fathers may offer different words and perspectives on everyday things—share your own view of the environment, objects, and events with your child.

Stay involved in your child’s everyday care—changing diapers, choosing clothes for going out—and don’t be afraid to tie a ponytail or create your daughter’s first hairstyle.

Children at this age still need your closeness, cuddles, love, and patience. At times, it may seem like they are defiant or argumentative. You might even become the target of early hits—or, very typically for this stage, bites. Don’t think they are acting out of naughtiness—they are experiencing emotions that feel huge and completely inexpressible to them. They have no control over their daily lives or schedules—everything is decided for them. Ask yourself: how would you feel? For behaviours like tantrums, hitting, or breaking things, the child should not be punished, nor do you need to enforce strict discipline. Instead, explain to the child that you understand how they feel, name the emotion, show empathy, tell them which behaviour is not acceptable and why, and stop the behaviour. Give them space and time to cry, shout, and protest. Reassure them that you are there and that you love them. Every emotion—and every outburst—has a beginning, a peak, and an end, even if it seems like it will never pass. If you are overwhelmed by your own feelings of anger in response to your child’s behaviour, remind yourself that you are an adult and capable of managing your emotions—your child is not there yet.

How to play with your child during the second year

At this stage, children start stacking and knocking over blocks and cups. They enjoy taking items out of bowls or cabinets and putting them back in. Pots, noise, and physical play continue to be favourites. Toy cars and anything with wheels become especially interesting.

Educational toys such as stacking rings, shape sorters, and wooden puzzles are excellent for developing motor and cognitive skills. Play with your child by naming and describing the toys in as many ways as possible—but don’t solve problems for them. If they get frustrated and throw a block because it doesn’t fit, name the emotion and show them how you do it, then offer them a chance to try again.

Ball play—rolling and kicking—is becoming more frequent.

Children begin to enjoy social play. In the previous stage, they were focused mostly on the shape and texture of the ball and how it moved in relation to them. Now, they look for play partners and share joy in the interaction.

Imagination has no limits!

Boxes, large containers, or basins can become vehicles to ride in around the house. Make sounds, race, cheer, and don’t be afraid of sudden changes in direction, speed, or gentle crashes. Your child will let you know how much they’re enjoying it.

Keep throwing them up in the air, turning them upside down, bouncing on the bed, tickling, wrestling, and engaging in generally rougher play. Rough play is important for teaching boundaries, how to play with others, respect, and how to regulate aggression.

Mothers can be protective and may inhibit the physical aspect of play to the point where it stops being fun and the child quits. This is understandable in both evolutionary and social contexts, but it is exactly where fathers’ roles are crucial.

Don’t hold back but stop if your child signals that they no longer want to play.

Children at this age love flipping switches, plugging and unplugging cords, pulling, pushing, and moving beads along wires. If you are skilled with tools and crafts, spend time making your child a sensory activity board. Even better—include them in the process! You can add: light switches, power outlets and plugs, nuts and bolts, dials, magnets, gears, small doors, even LED lights that can be turned on and off. This kind of board can be updated and expanded over time, and your child will enjoy playing with it while developing motor skills, both fine and gross, problem-solving abilities, eye-hand coordination, and many other important skills.

Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child”, RODA 2018.

The child is now in the final stage of very intense motor, intellectual, and emotional development.

At this stage, the child has a much clearer understanding of themselves in relation to their surroundings, as well as of others in relation to those surroundings. They begin to realize more clearly that other people also have their own desires and emotions, and they expand the range of emotions they can successfully recognize and name. Now, the child will respond more often and more clearly to your emotions and behaviour, because this is the time when empathy fully begins to develop.

If you have previously taught your child how to recognize and name emotions, with the development of empathy, the child will find it easier to recognize and name emotions in other children as well.

In cases of conflict, you can explain to the child what emotions they are feeling, what emotions the other child is feeling, briefly and clearly explain what happened, and what the consequences were. When getting involved in conflict resolution, it is extremely important to use a calming tone of voice, not to yell, and not to blame either your own or the other child.

Your child still doesn't fully understand which actions lead to which consequences (for example, they may not realize that hitting another child with a ball will hurt because they didn’t properly estimate the force of the throw), and neither do other children at this age. In conversation, encourage your child to come up with several different solutions for the situation they found themselves in, and together choose a more appropriate behaviour they can use the next time a problem arises.

Show your child through your own example how to resolve conflicts calmly and politely, without aggression, yelling, or swearing. Children often see their fathers as invincible superheroes, idealize them, and imitate them—so show your child how to resolve conflict, how to stand up for themselves, and how to manage their emotions and behaviour.

As empathy develops, the child begins to form their first friendships.
At this stage, children spend less time playing next to each other and more time playing with each other. They may begin to build with blocks together, drive toy cars, play ball, sing, and engage in role-play. Encourage your child’s friendships. Ask your child who their favourite friends are, and if you haven’t already, build a relationship with the parents of those children and organize joint activities. Help your child if they want to make a gift for a friend or express closeness, and comfort them when problems arise. Talk to your child about your own friendships.

Male and female friendships differ in their dynamics and the form of relationships. It is very important that your child sees what male friendships look like, as well as your friendships with women. Take your child with you when meeting your friends, introduce them to your friends, and encourage their interaction. Talk to your child about your childhood friends as well. All of this will help your child form strong and warm relationships with other children.

All the words you have used in earlier stages are now starting to be spoken and properly used by your child. If you have involved them in everyday activities, they are now able to carry them out independently (e.g., tidying up toys, wiping up spilled water, putting on shoes, etc.).

Give your child the space to make decisions independently—encourage their autonomy and their ability to plan activities. Let your child suggest a game, ask how they want to spend time with you, and plan shared activities in advance. Always try to honour your plans; if for some reason you have to change them, explain to your child what happened, apologize, and offer an alternative. Accept that your child may feel upset and respect their emotions.

Planning daily activities helps develop your child’s understanding of time and supports the development of organizational skills, as well as respect for other people’s time and commitments.

Imagination is now much more developed in your child, and they begin to engage in and initiate role-playing games on their own, using them to make sense of daily situations and emotions. This kind of play becomes more common toward the end of this period. A child might find themselves in situations that provoke fear, such as going to the doctor or dentist, getting briefly lost in a store, or encountering a large unfamiliar animal. After such events, the child may want to play in a way that the parent takes on the role of the frightening figure — a doctor, animal, or monster — and expects full cooperation from the parent. Through this type of play, the child confronts their fears and learns how to cope with them.

If this type of play is avoided, the child is deprived of an appropriate outlet for expressing fear and developing important coping skills. Join in the play, take on the role of the “villain,” and don’t be afraid of your child’s emotions. Also, if the child wants to take on the role of the feared figure, don’t be alarmed by potential aggression. As long as it is within the context of play, it can have positive outcomes.

Observe your child’s play — it will often reveal what they are thinking about and what is occupying their mind, especially when they can’t express these things with words alone.

How to play with a child at this age

At this age, your child will engage in role-playing games with both you and other children. Encourage this kind of play and actively participate. Relax and have fun — don’t be afraid to become the scariest monster or the most vulnerable little boy. Through your relaxed approach to play, your child will learn a positive attitude toward play, emotions, and themselves. Children also enjoy playing out everyday activities. If they see you getting ready for work or working from home, expect them to want to imitate you — dressing up, sitting at a desk seriously, writing something, repairing things, or pretending to do your job. Explain to your child what you're doing and why. If they want to look like you, dress and groom them similarly and let them pretend they are you.

Encourage creativity through drawing, modelling with clay or playdough. Join your child in drawing and colouring — fathers often draw different themes than mothers and use different colour combinations and techniques. This diversity is important for your child’s understanding of the wide range of possibilities for expressing creativity and imagination.

Physical play remains extremely important. Wrestling can be combined with role-playing — you can act out superheroes, dramatic hits, falls, and knockouts as part of the game. Sticks and foam tubes can become metal or lightsabres, and you can defend a galaxy or a planet with your child every day. While your child may not yet fully grasp the complexity of stories, that should not stop you from immersing yourself in the play.

Set up your child’s room with obstacles for jumping and hiding spots. And of course, tidy up together afterward.

Keep playing ball games. Now you can expect actual passing, kicking, and chasing after the ball. Find a suitable outdoor space and teach your child sports games.

In general, let your child choose their own activities. By now, they already have clear preferences and desires when it comes to play, and your role is to support and expand their experiences.

Do not make distinctions in play based on gender. Play equally with your child regardless of whether they are a boy or a girl. Surely you don’t want to deprive your child of a medieval knight's quest or a space adventure just because they are of the “gentler” sex. This way, you are teaching your child from the start that the sky is the limit.

Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child”, RODA 2018.

When conflicts, wars, and global instability become major news topics and something adults talk about on a daily basis, it can trigger fear and anxiety in children—regardless of whether they live in a conflict zone or are somewhere safe. The fact that a child is physically safe does not diminish their worries, especially if they can see concern and fear on their parents’ faces.

This doesn’t mean that parents should hide their worries or stress. On the contrary, honesty (age-appropriate) and open conversations are the right approach. What a child needs most in such moments are safe, warm, caring, and supportive parents or other adults who are not only present but also teach them a crucial life skill—how to cope with stress.

1. Verbal support and physical comfort

In times of heightened stress, physical touch is extremely important. If possible and if the child seeks it, allow them to sleep close to you or another trusted adult. Comfort your child with words and try to avoid overly negative thinking, as much as you can. It is natural to have negative thoughts and fears in such moments but remember: you must help yourself first in order to help your child. Try to remain as calm as possible and tailor your conversations to your child's age.

2. Establishing a routine

Routine is especially important for a child during uncertain, changing, or unpredictable situations. Although the routine they followed before leaving home may no longer be possible, a “new” routine can be established. What matters is repetition and predictability—children need to know what to expect each day. A calming bedtime routine is recommended, such as reading a story, hugging and cuddling, or offering a warm drink.

If your child had already started practicing age-appropriate self-care tasks (like brushing their teeth, dressing themselves, making the bed), gently but firmly encourage a return to those routines.

3. Expressing emotions through play

Play is a child’s natural way of expressing and processing emotions. When a child shares a troubling feeling, or when it becomes clear they are overwhelmed, encourage them to talk about it, draw it, or express it in another way.

Encourage play or activities that allow the child to release negative emotions or practice self-regulation. For example, if they are feeling angry, offer activities that help discharge that energy—throwing a ball, hitting a pillow, running, long jumps, etc.

If play occasionally takes on an aggressive tone (playing with swords, toy guns, acting as an attacker or “bad guy”), this is a normal reaction to stress. Rough-and-tumble play helps develop motor and cognitive skills, as well as emotional and social growth. Through this type of play, a child gains important experiences of personal strength and confidence and learns to regulate feelings of anger and aggression. It helps release built-up emotions like anger, resentment, and fear, making it easier for the child to cope with stress.

4. Encouraging physical activity, healthy diet, and sleep

Physical activity has many benefits for children—it supports motor, social, cognitive, and emotional development. Any kind of movement can improve mood, increase positive feelings, and reduce negative ones.

A child’s diet also affects their energy levels—poor nutrition can lead to fatigue and exhaustion, which directly increase stress. Children should not go to bed hungry and should be offered a varied and healthy diet.

Good sleep is healing and helps, among other things, regulate stress hormone levels. It is essential to provide uninterrupted sleep time. Physical activity and healthy eating support better sleep. It is also recommended to avoid screen use (phones, TV, computers, tablets) at least one hour before bed. If your child has trouble sleeping, ensure the last content they view isn’t too stimulating or distressing, as this can negatively affect sleep quality.

5. Normalizing worry and anxiety

It is completely understandable and normal to feel discomfort, anxiety, and worry during highly stressful situations, especially when fearing for your family’s future. Show emotions in front of your child, name and explain them. Accept and validate both your own emotions and your child’s—feelings are always authentic.

Encourage both yourself and your child to engage in activities that reduce stress. Get involved in family routines and habits that help improve your overall mood.

In the relationship between a parent and a child, it is very important to create a space where open conversations about all topics can take place — including emotions and fears. If a child struggles to express their feelings in words, help them by encouraging other forms of expression such as drawing or play.

To begin with, it is essential that parents acknowledge and accept the child’s fear without minimizing it. For a child, their fear is very real and distressing. By downplaying it, we risk the child withdrawing further, which won’t help resolve the problem behind the fear.

If the child doesn’t initiate a conversation but you notice signs of fear, gently encourage them to talk. Choose a calm moment in the day — a time when you are not in a rush or overwhelmed by the news. For example, you could be watching a movie, reading together, or playing, and use that moment to spontaneously ask how they are feeling. Find out what they have heard that might have upset or frightened them, and what they think about it.

Your child’s questions might stir anxiety in you as well, especially if they seem too big or serious for a child. Questions like “Will we ever see our city and friends again?” or “Will I make any friends here?” are deeply emotional and cannot leave a parent indifferent. Reassure your child, hug them, tell them you understand their concern, and ask what exactly they heard and why they feel that way. Ask follow-up questions and try to get as many details as possible, because the more a child talks, the more their fear and worry are likely to ease. Once they explain what’s frightening or upsetting them, it will be easier for you to comfort them. This also shows them that fears can be soothed and shared.

Try to reassure your child that they are safe.

Ask what you can do to help them feel less scared — for example, leaving the light on at night or staying with them until they fall asleep. 

Pay attention to what calms your child and use those methods consistently when fear arises.

Emphasize that they can always come to you with any worries and, from time to time, check how they are feeling. Go for a walk together, encourage physical activity, as it can help reduce anxiety and tension. Offer them a warm drink, lie down with them, hug them, tell a story with a happy ending, and show them that there is hope for a better future.

If the child remains anxious for a long time, cannot be soothed easily, seems depressed, has panic attacks, or feels helpless, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. The same applies to you as a parent — don’t hesitate to seek support.

Fear of war and conflict

When talking to your child, avoid labelling entire nations or peoples. Emphasize that conflicts and crises are caused by individuals, and that most people want peaceful solutions. Try not to encourage prejudice, even when it’s difficult.

Redirect your child’s attention to positive stories — families who welcomed refugees, emergency services helping on the ground, calls for peace and conflict resolution, or happy stories of rebuilding life in a new country.

Our mood is a long-lasting and predictable emotional state. It is an internal, pervasive experience of feeling, and mood changes are a normal occurrence at all stages of life. Depending on life circumstances—and sometimes even without them—our mood can shift from normal to elevated or depressed. A healthy person experiences mood fluctuations but retains awareness and control over them.

Sometimes a feeling of sadness or a low mood can last for a longer period, regardless of whether there is an apparent reason or not. In such cases, we may be dealing with depression.

Depression

When it comes to depressive disorder, it is not simply a state of slightly worse mood—it is a condition of significant mood change that affects overall thinking, perception, physical condition, behavior, and social functioning.

When we go through a stressful event—such as war or losing a home, which are among the most stressful experiences one can face—it is natural to feel sad. This is a normal emotional reaction to such an event and typically lasts for a certain amount of time. Depression, however, is not just feeling down or occasionally gloomy. It is a serious psychological disorder. If untreated, depression can lead to serious problems in the family, at school, with peers, substance abuse, and even tragic outcomes such as violence or suicide.

Signs of depression

Today, depression is increasingly common among children and adolescents, which is why it is crucial to pay attention to the signs of depression and take steps to help the child.
The table below lists signs that may indicate depression. If you notice most of these signs lasting for more than two weeks, it would be wise to seek professional help.

A depressed child appears sad, listless, speaks in a monotonous voice, has slowed movements, and seems lonely and withdrawn. Depressed children are often irritable, and they may show symptoms of anxiety, fear, discomfort, and boredom.

Depression in children is often masked by physical complaints such as stomachaches or headaches for which no medical cause can be found. The child's mood may temporarily improve during enjoyable activities, although they engage in them less often than children who are not depressed. A depressed child is excessively self-critical and may fear that others will treat them with the same harshness and criticism they direct at themselves.

Although suicide in this age group is very rare—and even suicide attempts are uncommon—depressed children often express a wish to die, and they may say so when asked.

What can you do to help your child?

• Encourage your child to open up and talk to you about what is bothering them.
• Spend more time with your child than usual—they need you more now than before the signs of depression appeared.
• Show your child that they are accepted, valued, and that you care about them. You can do this through small gestures of attention and praise whenever possible.
• Be understanding—your child is not intentionally feeling bad. Do your best to be patient and compassionate.
• Encourage physical activity, as exercise can help treat depression. Try to incorporate physical activity into your child's daily routine. Even a simple walk or bike ride can help.
• Promote social interaction with other children—withdrawal only worsens depression. Offer to take your child out and suggest activities they might enjoy, such as sports, movies, art or music workshops, etc.
• Be involved in the treatment process. Make sure your child follows treatment instructions and attends therapy. If your child has been prescribed medication, it is especially important they take it regularly. Monitor any changes in your child’s condition and contact their doctor if symptoms worsen.
• Educate yourself about depression—the more you know, the better you can help your child.
• Seek help for your child and yourself. Talk to your family doctor, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, the class teacher, or the school psychologist.

The road to full recovery can be challenging, so be patient. Celebrate small victories, but be prepared for setbacks. Most importantly, don’t blame yourself and don’t compare your family to others.

It is natural for parents to try to hide the truth about war, conflict, or hardship from their child and to minimize the horrors that led them to leave their country of origin in order to protect the child from stress and fear. However, this coping strategy is not recommended, as it does not give the child space to ask questions, seek explanations, or receive support.

Talking with a parent helps the child better understand the events around them, relationships between people, and also teaches them how to express and name emotions and internal experiences, and how to build relationships with others. Through conversation, a child not only hears what is said, but also feels how it is said, which can further calm and comfort them.

Talking about difficult topics brings understanding

It is extremely important not to hide the truth from the child because they may learn the reasons for leaving home in other ways. They might overhear your conversations with other adults and sense the worry in your voice, or they might hear part of the truth from other children, through social media, or in the news. In such cases, reality may seem even more frightening because the child does not fully understand what they hear and see—and they are certainly aware of the insecurity and fear of the adults close to them.

That is why talking about the life circumstances that brought you to Croatia is important. It will help your child better understand the situation you are in, which will to some extent reduce their fear.

Normalize the feelings your child has

Due to everything that is happening, and what they hear and see, a child may feel fear, confusion, worry, or anger. It takes time for a child to recognize and accept what they are feeling. That is why we need to clearly communicate to the child that it is completely normal to feel sad, scared, or angry.

Avoid responding to your child’s worries or fears by minimizing them or telling the child to calm down or that they are overreacting. What the child feels is authentic. Show them that their emotions are valid and help them name those emotions. Just having the conversation and your understanding will help soothe and comfort them.

Guidelines for talking with your child

Before talking to your child, it is good to know what you want to say and how you will say it. Take some time to think about the content you plan to share and the way you will approach the conversation.

It is important to adapt the conversation to the child’s age. These are difficult topics, and it might seem unimaginable to talk about them with a small child. However, these events deeply affect our lives, and your child inevitably senses this and wants to understand and know what is going on. That is why it is important to talk to your child in a way and with language they can understand, taking their age into account.

Also, be aware that you might not be able to help the child on your own because it may be too difficult. If necessary, seek help from a child mental health professional.

Children aged one to three

At this age, a child understands and feels that something is happening, but does not understand what or why. The child may cry more often and seek closeness to you. They may have trouble sleeping and with toilet habits, behave like a baby again, or ask to be fed. They may have tantrums, hit, show irritability, be defiant or withdrawn, but are unable to explain their feelings. They may also fear separation and become distressed when the parent is out of sight.

You can help your child by staying calm and establishing routines that give them a sense of predictability and therefore safety. If your child is not yet speaking or asking questions, talk about daily life in a positive, optimistic way, sending the message that your family is now safe.

Preschool-aged children

At this age, children may express anger by lashing out at parents or withdrawing and becoming depressed. Imagination and reality blend at this stage, and the child understands the importance of protecting the family.

The child may be anxious, have outbursts of anger or aggression, or behave as they did when they were younger. They may be afraid of going to sleep, being alone, or have restless sleep and even nightmares. If your child is reluctant to do things they used to enjoy, talk to them—don’t wait for them to initiate the conversation.

Some children will start the conversation themselves and ask many questions, while others may seem uninterested. Both groups of children need to hear the truth about war and be engaged in conversation. If the child asks questions, it s easier to start the conversation by answering them, then asking how they feel about it, and whether they understood what you explained. You can then continue explaining what is happening and keep the conversation going for as long as the child needs.

If the child doesn’t ask questions, try to “feel out” their emotions with gentle questions and find out if they want to talk, what they know, and how they feel. Then begin a conversation about the events and the situation your family is in.
If you see that your child has overheard something or knows something, start the conversation and explain what they are curious about.

What children need most from adults is a sense of protection and safety—and this is something we as parents can provide, no matter how difficult it may be, even when we ourselves feel unprotected and insecure.

Fear is one of the basic emotions, along with joy, sadness, shame, anger and love. It appears very early and has a strong motivational force. Fear is an emotion that triggers defensive behaviour in children, just as it does in adults. It can be caused by external factors, such as difficult life circumstances like war and displacement, or by internal ones, when we think about something that frightens us. Regardless of the source of our fear, once we feel it, our entire body is activated to defend itself and protect us.

Developmental fears

In normal life circumstances, fears are a natural part of every child's life and appear and disappear as the child develops and moves from one developmental phase to another. These are so-called developmental fears, which are characteristic of a certain age. Separation anxiety is a fear that appears early in childhood and is most prominent up to around the second year of life, and it is expressed through crying when the child is separated from familiar people. This fear is accompanied by a fear of strangers and is linked to the caution a child feels towards people they do not know. At the age of three or four, the child can already speak and absorbs content through picture books, animated films, and also via the internet. At this time, fear of imaginary characters may arise, as well as fear of real-life events such as accidents, physical injuries, the dark, or illness.

These developmental fears require parental attention, understanding, patience, and acceptance of the child’s fears, and generally do not require professional help.

Signs of fear in a child

In younger children, fear is easy to spot because the child resists, cries, and shows discontent. In slightly older children, of preschool age or early primary school, fear is shown through tension, worry and withdrawal. A child may also show fear through physical reactions such as stomach-ache, headache, heart palpitations, sweating, or tics.

However, some children will not show obvious signs of fear – this does not mean they are not afraid. That is why it is good to talk openly with the child and not to hide your own emotions.

If you notice that a child is afraid, try to discover the source of the fear by encouraging a conversation about it.

However, in general, mothers and fathers tend to have different play styles — and each style offers a wonderful way to build and maintain a loving, joyful, and affectionate connection with their child. The types of play described below tend to come more naturally to fathers, and it’s often in these kinds of activities that you’ll find dads having fun with their children.

1. Rough-and-tumble play

This is probably the first image that comes to mind when you think of a dad playing with his children. This kind of play often involves a bit of rough and tumble — like wrestling or playful pushing, filled with squeals and laughter that both boys and girls equally enjoy. Why it matters: Although it might look a bit silly, rough play is important for a child’s development as it helps them explore physical boundaries, test their coordination, and improve their balance.

2. Humorous songs and games

Have you ever asked your dad to sing you a lullaby? Chances are, he’ll change the words to the songs or make up his own endings to bedtime stories. Why it matters: Telling stories through lullabies and songs helps children develop language skills, understand characters, and recognise story patterns and sequences. When dads change the words, they’re showing how to think creatively and imaginatively beyond the usual.

3. Messy play

If you need a partner in crime for splashing in mud, water balloon fights or even a game of paintball, dads are the perfect choice. This kind of messy play doesn’t have to stop as your child grows—on the contrary, it can carry on well into their teenage years. Why it matters: Messy play supports the development of motor skills and concentration, encourages problem-solving, and provides a unique sensory experience. Just think back to what it feels like to step barefoot into mud!

4. Building and problem-solving activities

Whether it’s building little houses, boats or trailers, dads are great at encouraging hands-on, practical tasks. If you’re a dad who enjoys making and building things, set up a small workspace with toy tools next to your own so your child can join in. You can also do puzzles together or build houses from tiny Lego bricks—and your tools and workbench can become a playground for learning and creativity. Why it matters: Hands-on play develops spatial awareness, fine motor control, problem-solving, analysis, planning, creativity and hand-eye coordination—which really is quite a lot!

5. Father’s sense of humour

Every dad has his own jokes and a unique sense of humour—usually the kind that makes him laugh the most. In fact, the best dad jokes are often measured by the number of eye-rolls and deep sighs they get from the rest of the family. Why it matters: While it’s mostly about having a laugh, these jokes also show that it’s okay to be self-aware and not take yourself too seriously. They help children learn to look on the bright side and even teach them about the nuances and complexity of language.

6. Sports and adventurous activities

Whether it’s team sports, horse riding, running or exploring the great outdoors, dads often place a strong emphasis on movement, physical development and agility. Both boys and girls benefit from this kind of regular exercise—whether they dream of becoming athletes or simply enjoy running around the park. Why it matters: By setting a positive example, fathers teach their children that physical activity is important—a value they’ll carry with them throughout life. Exercise also supports mental and emotional wellbeing, strengthens bones, boosts immunity, helps maintain a healthy weight, and much more.

The role of a father is extremely important for a child’s development, as the presence of a loving and supportive father brings numerous benefits to the child’s emotional, social, and cognitive growth. However, if the biological father is not present, these same positive effects can be provided by other father figures—such as grandfathers, uncles, godparents, or close family friends—provided they are involved, consistent, and caring in their relationship with the child.

Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child 3+”, RODA 2021.

As your child grows, the role of the father and partner doesn’t lose its importance; rather, it changes, develops, and gains new dimensions in the relationship with your child. Many fathers feel more at ease interacting with an older child, so if you feel the same, now is the time when you, as a dad, can truly shine. If you have so far shared childcare equally with your partner and been involved in your child’s life, you are already strongly connected with your child, and the period ahead is simply a continuation and strengthening of that good relationship where the whole family grows together.

Even if you haven’t been actively present and involved in your child’s life until now, it’s not too late to take on an active role in your child’s and family’s life and make an effort to develop and nurture your bond and attachment with your child. Sometimes dads find it challenging to create opportunities to spend time with their children, but it’s very important to make an effort to be actively involved in family life and present during your child’s upbringing. At first, this might mean taking on some daily childcare tasks, going for a walk, or telling a bedtime story. Over time, with a little effort, every dad will find his place.

Balancing family life with all the other everyday demands can be challenging, but it is not impossible. If a father wants to remain (or become) an important figure in their child’s life, be involved in their upbringing, and help build a strong and close relationship, the following tips may be helpful.

1.  Continue your bedtime ritual (or start one)
Bedtime is an ideal moment to create routines that help you connect with your child and deepen your existing bond. Help your child with their bedtime routine, offer a massage before sleep, dance a goodnight dance holding your child (while they’re still light enough). Read or tell bedtime stories using different voices for the characters. Create a calming game or activity to make part of your nightly routine together.

2.  Physical contact remains an important way to connect with your child
Physical contact enables immediate connection and emphasises your presence. Sometimes dads forget that even the simplest, firm hug has a healing effect and deepens the feeling of closeness for both father and child. Whenever you can, take some time for hugs and kisses.

3.  Talk
Even if you don’t have much time, set aside moments to talk with your child. As they grow, communication is very important for staying involved in your child’s life. Sharing thoughts, experiences, and feelings nurtures the bond you have with your child and allows you to really get to know them.

4.  Take part in physical activities together
Shared physical activities encourage bonding and closeness between father and child. Sharing a love for the same sport and taking part in it together, working on fixing household appliances, toys, or even cars, going for walks, playing ball in the park, cycling—these are just some activities you can enjoy together. Find a hobby you both enjoy and dedicate time to it as a team.

5.  Include your child in everyday tasks
Even the most ordinary household chores can become a joint activity and an opportunity for father and child to connect. Besides learning new skills in a fun and close way, the child feels useful and important, which boosts their confidence. By setting an example, a father teaches the child that everyone in the family participates equally in household duties—a vital life lesson.

Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child 3+”, RODA 2021

The Republic of Croatia’s education system includes the following levels:

• early childhood education and care 
• primary education
• secondary education
• higher education
• adult education.

Children who have been granted asylum, subsidiary protection, or temporary protection in Croatia, as well as those seeking international protection, have the right to education and inclusion in Croatian educational institutions. Applicants for international protection are entitled to primary and secondary education. Meanwhile, asylees and individuals under subsidiary or temporary protection have the right to primary, secondary, and higher education under the same conditions as Croatian citizens, in accordance with special regulations.

Early childhood education and care

The education system in the Republic of Croatia begins with preschool institutions, including kindergartens and other facilities that implement preschool programs. Children can enrol in half-day, full-day or shorter programs within kindergartens.

Although early childhood education is available for children from six months of age until they start school, most children do not enter nursery (kindergarten for infants) before their first birthday. This is because parental leave in Croatia lasts until the child is 12 months old, or 14 months if the father also utilizes the portion of leave reserved for him.

Primary education

Primary education in Croatia is compulsory and free for all children with permanent or registered residence in the country, regardless of their citizenship.

Children typically begin primary school at the age of six or seven, with enrolment in the first grade. Children who turn six by 1 April of a given year are required to start school that same year. Primary education usually lasts until the age of 15, but for students with multiple developmental disabilities, it can extend until 21 at the latest. The primary school program spans eight years and includes both regular and special programs. 

Special programs cater to children with developmental disabilities, alternative curricula and education in the language and script of national minorities. Upon completing primary education, students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to continue their education at the secondary school level.

Additionally, children can pursue basic artistic education in music or dance alongside their primary education.

Enrolment in the first grade of basic artistic education is available to children aged seven or nine, provided they meet the criteria outlined in the curriculum of artistic education. Basic music education follows a six-year curriculum, whereas basic dance education follows a four-year curriculum, both aligned with primary school art education. For children over the age of 15 who have not completed the legally required primary education, Croatia offers a basic education system for adults.

Croatia has private kindergartens and elementary schools.
The cost of attending these institutions is not standardized nationwide; it depends on market prices and whether the local government chooses to subsidize private programs (and if so, to which extent).

Secondary education

After completing primary education, students can pursue secondary education, which provides the knowledge and skills needed for employment or further studies. 

Depending on the type of curriculum, secondary schools are categorized into gymnasiums, vocational schools, and art schools. The duration of secondary education ranges from one to five years, depending on the program.

Secondary education in Croatia is not compulsory, and the availability of programs varies across the country. Higher education Higher education in Croatia is offered at universities (faculties, academies and departments), polytechnics, and colleges, with programs delivered through university and professional study programs. 

Adult education Adult education encompasses learning processes aimed at improving employability and personal development. It can take place in various forms, including formal, non-formal, informal and/or self-directed learning. 

Children who have been granted asylum, subsidiary protection, or temporary protection, as well as those seeking international protection, have the right to education and inclusion in Croatian educational institutions.

To enrol your child in a kindergarten, you must provide a proof of your current status in Croatia. This document confirms your status as a person under international, subsidiary or temporary protection or as an applicant for international protection.

Children who, together with their parents or guardians, have one of these statuses, are enrolled in kindergartens closest to their residence, while ensuring compliance with the State Pedagogical Standard—which regulates group sizes and the number of children per educator.

Kindergarten enrolment in Croatia typically takes place in May (from April to June) for the upcoming pedagogical year, which runs from September of the current year to the end of August of the following year, when kindergartens publish enrolment announcements.

As a general rule, applications for kindergarten admission are submitted based on place of residence, with parents applying to the nearest kindergarten. There is also the option to select an alternative kindergarten as a second choice. A searchable list of kindergartens in Croatia is available on the Ministry of Science and Education website under the  Overview of kindergartens section. Additionally, information on kindergartens can be found on the official websites of cities and municipalities that operate them.

Details about the registration process and required documentation can be accessed on the official website of the chosen kindergarten. These instructions are also commonly displayed on the kindergarten’s entrance door for easy reference. 

To enrol a child in kindergarten, parents must submit an application, which can be downloaded from the selected kindergarten’s website or obtained in person. Applications are submitted after the kindergarten or city administration announces the enrolment competition for the upcoming academic year. 

Along with the application, specific forms and documents must be attached. A list of required documents, along with instructions on how to obtain them, is available on the kindergarten’s website and posted at the kindergarten’s entrance during the enrolment period. In some cases, applications can also be submitted through the e-Citizens system. 

For accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to contact the nearest kindergarten or consult the city or municipal administration to confirm the required documents and enrolment procedures. 

Results and right to appeal

Enrolment results are published by the end of June. If you are not satisfied with the decision, you have the right to appeal. Each kindergarten sets its own deadlines and procedures for submitting an appeal. The contract for the implementation of the program is concluded in August, no later than 1 September.

For children with disabilities, an observation period—typically lasting up to three months—is conducted to assess their needs and ensure placement in an appropriate program that supports their development and well-being.

Priority in enrolment

The Law on Preschool Education defines priority categories for kindergarten enrolment when there are more applicants than available places. The specific criteria and procedures for obtaining priority status are determined by the kindergarten’s founder and outlined in their official regulations. You can obtain more details from the selected kindergarten.

Enrolment during the pedagogical year

Children may be enrolled in kindergarten during the pedagogical year if there are available places. 

Kindergarten costs

The economic cost of regular kindergarten programs varies by city and municipality, typically ranging between €199.08 and €331.81 per month. The exact fee is determined by the kindergarten’s founder and may also depend on additional programs offered, which may incur extra charges.

Parents are required to contribute a portion of the total cost, which in most cities and municipalities does not exceed €106.18. The remaining amount is subsidized by local authorities, meaning parents usually pay up to 40% of the full cost. 

Fee reductions may be available with a certificate from the regional office of the Croatian Institute of Social Work. 

Kindergarten programs

When enrolling a child in kindergarten, parents can choose from various programs: 

• regular program — a 10-hour daily program covering care, education, health, nutrition, and social support, or a 5-hour half-day option,
• preschool program — designed for children not attending regular kindergarten, this program is offered in the year before they start primary school,
• special and shorter programs - activities based on children's interests, conducted during or outside the 10-hour regular program. Options may include sports, dance, music, art, drama, informatics, environmental education, religious studies, and more,
• other programs.

For children not enrolled in kindergarten, a free preschool program (minimum 250 hours per year) is mandatory one year before primary school. To apply for the preschool program, parents should register their child at the kindergarten secretariat. 

Primary education in Croatia is mandatory and free for all children aged 6 to 15 years, or up to 21 years for children with developmental disabilities. Children who turn six by 1 April of the current year are required to start school. This means parents must register them for enrolment and ensure they undergo an assessment to determine their readiness for first grade. 

To enrol a child in primary school (grades 1-8 in Croatia), contact your nearest primary school directly. The school's professional staff will discuss the enrolment process, determine the appropriate grade if the child is continuing primary education in Croatia, and explain the required documentation if the child is enrolling for the first time.

If you have documents proving previous education (such as report cards from previous grades), bring them to the school meeting. However, if no official documents are available, this will not prevent enrolment. In such cases, the school will assess the child's knowledge and determine the appropriate grade level.

Choosing a school

Children are usually enrolled in the school closest to their residence. However, parents can request enrolment in a different school with the approval of the desired school's principal. If approved, you must inform your local school that your child will not be attending. 

There are some exceptions to this procedure. These include enrolment in a special education school for children with developmental disabilities, enrolment in a religiously affiliated or private school, or enrolment in a town with only one primary school, where all children are automatically assigned.

School enrolment process

The enrolment process begins by submitting an application to the school’s administration. Details can be found on the school’s website, and brief instructions are often posted on the school’s entrance doors.

Before enrolment, the child's knowledge, motor skills, and overall readiness for school are assessed. A professional committee evaluates the child’s psychophysical condition and provides parents with a certificate of school readiness. The expert committee consists of a school medicine doctor, a school pedagogue/psychologist/educational rehabilitator and a 1-4 grade school teacher.

Schedule of child readiness assessments

A school medicine doctor will examine the child and provide an opinion on their readiness for school. Additionally, a school psychologist and/or pedagogue will assess their preparedness for first grade in a separate meeting.

The assessment takes place at the primary school assigned to the child based on their residential address, while the medical check-up is usually conducted at a designated school outpatient clinic. You will receive scheduled appointments for both, but if you are unable to attend, you must notify the school and doctor to reschedule.
If the child has specific difficulties requiring an assistant or alternative schooling, parents must provide documentation from relevant institutions, including prior assessments, medical evaluations, rehabilitation reports or findings of a unified expert body. Parents must submit this documentation to the school to ensure the child receives appropriate support.

For students who have limited proficiency in the Croatian language, primary schools provide preparatory Croatian language classes. During these classes, students receive descriptive, rather than numerical, evaluations. Once they pass the Croatian language exam, they receive numerical grades. 

There are also circumstances under which parents can request early school enrolment for a younger child or postpone enrolment for a child who is required to start school, particularly if the child has significant health issues or other special circumstances. However, this decision is made with expert assessment and not solely by parents. You can inquire about this process during the initial school consultation or at the local education office in the town/municipality in which you are currently residing. Necessary forms and information are often available on school or county education office websites.

In Croatia, schools are established by local governments, municipalities, and cities, meaning that some rights and opportunities vary depending on local decisions. While primary education is free, municipalities and cities across Croatia have different programs for subsidizing school meal and transportation costs. School textbooks are provided free of charge nationwide, while parents must purchase supplementary materials such as workbooks, notebooks, and art supplies.

All relevant information is available at schools.

As part of preparing for school, it is important to designate a space your child will use for learning and doing homework.
If the child has their own room, that is usually the best place. However, if that is not possible, choose a shared area in the home where the child can sit peacefully at a specific time of day to learn and complete their assignments. It is important that the spot is always the same, so the child starts to see it as their dedicated work area.

Also, try to reduce distractions in that space. For example, if the child is working at the kitchen table, turn off the radio or TV while they are doing homework.

Before school starts, set aside some time in your schedule (15 minutes to begin with) to sit with your child in that space and draw, colour, read picture books, talk and imagine together, count pebbles, play with modelling clay or dough, and similar activities. These fun moments create a great foundation for reading and writing. Do not try to teach your child to read or write at this point (unless they are eager to do so) — simply enjoy the time and create a positive, relaxed “working” atmosphere.

Once school begins, your child will associate that space with those enjoyable activities and begin to see it as their own working area.

School bag and supplies

One of the more exciting tasks for every new schoolchild is picking out a school bag and other school supplies. We strongly recommend involving your child in this process. Set criteria together for choosing the bag, pencil case, slippers, book covers, and so on.

You can decide the price range and quality, and let your child choose the design, colour, and similar features. If they feel included and get to pick items they like, they are more likely to take good care of their school supplies.

If you are receiving supplies through a donation program, check if there is an option for your child to choose a bag or pencil case they like.

Starting nursery or kindergarten is often the first time a child is separated from their parents—especially the mother—for an extended period of time. At the same time, it is also their first encounter with a larger group of unfamiliar people. This can often be a traumatic experience, both for the child and the parents, as it is filled with fear of separation and the efforts required for the child to adapt to the new situation.

With the arrival of a child into an educational group, their way of life changes. The child meets a group of peers, establishes social contacts, and develops communication with other children and educators.

Most children cry or protest in other ways, expressing their sadness over being separated from their parents. Children experience what is known as separation anxiety. They have difficulty understanding that their parents will return and often feel abandoned.

It is important for parents to understand that a small amount of separation anxiety is normal. This kind of behaviour actually shows that the child and parent have a strong and healthy bond—meaning they have developed a secure attachment.

How a child adapts depends on several factors:

• Individual characteristics
• Stage of development
• Age of the child
• The child’s health condition
• The family environment the child lives in

Children who have more difficulty adapting to a new environment include:

• Emotionally sensitive children
• Children who are dependent or egocentric
• Children who previously had negative experiences with separation from parents

Three main types of adaptation

There are three main types of adaptation:

• Easy adaptation

A normal reaction to a new environment in children who have grown up in optimal conditions and formed a secure and stable emotional bond with their parents. In such children, behavioural changes usually normalize within 10 to 15 days of attending nursery or kindergarten.

• Moderate adaptation

Behavioural changes last longer but stabilize within 30 days of starting nursery or kindergarten.

• Difficult adaptation

A prolonged and more challenging behavioural disorder that can last from 2 to 6 months. These children are often exposed to multiple unfavourable factors that extend the adaptation period—such as illness, negative family conditions, or inappropriate parenting styles.

A small amount of separation anxiety is normal and indicates a good and healthy relationship between a parent and a child. Most children adapt to the new environment and situation without major or long-lasting problems.

Some children react physiologically—refusing food, refusing to sleep, having digestive issues, or frequent illnesses—while others may react behaviourally through crying, aggression, or withdrawal.

One possible reaction is regression, which means the child may exhibit behaviours typical of an earlier developmental stage that had already been overcome (e.g., bedwetting, thumb-sucking, wanting a pacifier again, etc.).

All of these behaviours are normal during the adaptation phase. They decrease and disappear as the child adjusts to the environment and begins to form social and emotional relationships with the educator.

Most children go through the adaptation process without major behavioural disturbances, and only a small number experience more difficult forms of adaptation.

It is important to note that adaptation is not complete when the child stops crying, but when the child begins to spontaneously express their emotions, thoughts, and abilities. For this reason, special attention should be given to withdrawn children who do not show their own initiative. The reassuring news is that throughout the entire adaptation process, there are ways you can help your child adjust more easily to the new situation.

For any concerns you may have about your child’s adjustment to nursery or kindergarten, you can always talk to the teachers or the kindergarten’s professional support staff.

In Croatia, primary education is free and compulsory for all children from the age of 6 to 15, and extends up to the age of 21 for pupils with developmental difficulties. It spans a total of 8 years.

Education begins with enrolment in the first year of primary school, which children typically start in the calendar year they turn six or seven—most often after their sixth birthday—depending on an assessment of their readiness for school.

Structure of education

Primary school in Croatia is divided into two levels:

• Class-based teaching (lower grades) – from year 1 to year 4

At this stage, children are mostly taught by one teacher who covers the majority of subjects, with some subjects (e.g. foreign language) taught by other specialised teachers.

The focus is on developing basic knowledge and skills, learning habits, and socialisation.

Subjects taught include: Croatian language, mathematics, science and society, visual arts, music, physical and health education, and a foreign language (a compulsory subject from year one). Furthermore, religious education (most schools have Catholic and Islamic religious teachers) is also offered as an elective subject.

If parents choose for their child not to attend the elective subject, the child is usually supervised at school during that time or the timetable is arranged in a way that allows the child to come to school later or leave earlier.
Some schools offer the option of enrolling in an additional foreign language as an elective subject.

• Subject-based teaching (upper grades) – from year 5 to year 8

Pupils are taught by subject-specific teachers, meaning that each subject is taught by a specialised teacher.
They have more lessons and a greater number of different subjects.

In subject-based teaching (years 5–8), additional subjects are introduced: history, geography, technical education, and computing. In year 7, biology (instead of science), chemistry, and physics are added. Pupils may also choose ethics instead of religious education.

In addition to compulsory subjects, schools offer elective subjects and extracurricular activities such as school sports, drama, music, visual arts, and other clubs. Pupils can also attend remedial and enrichment classes to support learning or deepen their knowledge.

For younger pupils, primary schools provide extended day care where children, under the guidance of their class teacher, complete schoolwork, do homework, study, and have structured time for play and socialisation, as well as meals.
Children can attend extended day care before the start of lessons (if your working hours begin before 8 a.m. and you don’t want your child to stay home alone), and it lasts until 4 p.m.
Extended day care is paid for, but parents contribute only a portion of the full cost, depending on the household income per family member.

Children of migrants in Croatia have the right to education and care, including access to educational institutions such as kindergartens.

Early childhood and preschool education represents the initial level of the Croatian education system. With the exception of the preschool programme—which is mandatory for children in the year before starting primary school—participation is not compulsory for all preschool-aged children.
Even though it is not obligatory, enrolling a child in one of the preschool programmes offers many benefits: faster acquisition of the Croatian language, improved socialisation and peer interaction, and easier adjustment to the new local environment.

Early childhood and preschool education in Croatia is divided into two stages:

(1) from six months to the age of three (nursery),
(2) from the age of three until the start of primary school (kindergarten).

Children can be enrolled in half-day, full-day, or shorter programmes. Some kindergartens also offer specialised pedagogical approaches such as Montessori, Reggio, or Waldorf, as well as sports and drama groups, among others.

Early childhood and preschool education encompasses educational, care, health, nutrition, and social welfare programmes.

Kindergartens operate under the regulations of the Ministry of Science and Education, but are established by local municipalities or private providers. Consequently, enrolment procedures, admission criteria, and programme fees may vary between kindergartens.

Kindergarten attendance is not compulsory, except for children in the year before starting school.

Kindergartens also implement the preschool programme, which is mandatory for all children in the year before entering primary school (if they are not already attending kindergarten). The programme typically includes 250 to 550 hours per year and runs from October to June. 

In exceptional cases, the programme may be organised with fewer hours.
The preschool programme is free of charge for all parents whose children are enrolled in the year prior to starting primary education.

Sources:

https://mzo.gov.hr/istaknute-teme/odgoj-i-obrazovanje/rani-i-predskolski-odgoj-i-obrazovanje/128

https://radnickaprava.org/tekstovi/intervjui/ivana-dobrotic-vrtici-za-sve

https://www.bilten.org/?p=7959

Although nursery staff are trained to support children through their early days and the process of settling into a childcare setting, there are many things you as a parent can do to help your child get used to a new daily rhythm and embrace going to nursery or daycare.

You can begin the adaptation process even before your child’s first day in the group, and continue supporting them throughout the initial days and weeks of adjustment.

If your child is also entering a nursery where the language spoken is not their native tongue, the first step in preparing for and easing the transition is introducing them to some basic Croatian words and phrases. This will help them communicate more easily with nursery staff and other children. Find out whether there is a picture book or visual dictionary that can help you and your child learn common words and expressions in Croatian. Also, when enrolling your child, ask the nursery for advice and support in preparing your child for entering a group where a new or unfamiliar language is used.

Other ways to support the transition include:

● Talk about the nursery at home, take regular walks to it, and spend time at the playground or park in front of it—especially when other children are playing there.
● If possible, plan to spend two or three days (take time off work if necessary) in the group with your child, staying with them until they feel more comfortable with the new people and environment.
● Let the nursery staff know your child’s nickname or any affectionate name you use—hearing it from the adults can help your child feel more at ease.
● Give the nursery staff a photo of you or the family to pin up in the room—looking at it during moments of sadness can be comforting for your child.
● Inform the nursery staff about your child’s individual needs, including routines or preferences around eating and sleeping.
● If your child wants to, allow them to bring a comfort item from home to nursery.
● Show your child you love them, tell them you love them, and let them see that you are calm and happy they are in nursery.
● After collecting them, ask about their day and listen attentively to what they say.
● Your child will soon start talking about nursery, other children, the staff, and toys—encourage and nurture this growing interest.
● Do not belittle their difficulties adjusting or make fun of their emotions—your child needs your support more than ever right now. Spend quality time with them, play together, go for walks, and talk.
● Establish and maintain a consistent home routine (meals, play, walks, bedtime)—consistency and predictability have a calming effect on children.
● Never sneak away from your child—always say goodbye, tell them you love them and when you’ll return (e.g. after lunch or nap), and keep your promise.
● Avoid speaking in front of your child about your own fears or worries—children pick up on your anxiety, which can intensify their own.
● Keep goodbyes short and sweet—long farewells can give the impression that you are unsure about leaving them.
● If separating becomes too emotionally difficult for you, consider asking another family member (e.g. dad) to handle the drop-offs.
● Educate yourself about the typical adjustment process for nursery or daycare. If adaptation issues persist beyond three to four weeks, contact the nursery’s support staff, especially if your child still refuses to eat or sleep, sleeps poorly at home, or shows noticeable behavioural changes that concern you.

The first few days—or even weeks—of settling into this new situation can seem very difficult and distressing for your child, but trust the process of adaptation. If you notice persistent difficulties, involve the nursery’s professional team—they are trained to support families through this stage. Rest assured, the day will come when your child looks forward to nursery, eager for new adventures with their nursery friends.

Good luck!

Starting school is a major change for both the child and the family, and when this happens in a new country, it can become an additional source of stress and concern about how the child will cope.

Schools in Croatia are prepared to welcome pupils from other countries by offering preparatory Croatian language classes, and teachers and support staff are trained to help children adapt and integrate into the learning process in a new language.

There is a great deal you can do as a parent to help your child get ready for school – by preparing them mentally and emotionally (and yourself too), getting their school supplies and equipment ready, setting up a dedicated space at home for homework and studying, and familiarising your child with the school building and the route from home to school.

Emotional preparation for starting school

By enrolling in school, your child has already reached a certain level of emotional and intellectual maturity, but starting school is still a big transition, so it I is important to start preparing them for the changes ahead.

It is essential to talk about school often, casually, during everyday conversations with your child. The tone and manner in which you speak about school can shape your child’s attitude toward it – helping them see it positively, feel excited about it, and accept the transition more easily.

Here are some tips on how to do this:

● Talk about your own school days, highlighting friendships, the teacher who became an important figure in your life, and the joy of learning new skills and knowledge.
● Never scare your child with talk about the teacher, school, or responsibilities.
Your child is unlikely to be motivated or enjoy school if it is portrayed as a place where a "scary" teacher gives bad marks and everything is just work, duty, and discipline.
● Teach your child how to compare and evaluate.
Encourage self-comparison: make a gallery of their drawings or creations and compare how they have progressed over time. Speak positively about the differences between children – one may draw better, another dances well, someone else may be taller...
There is no need to fear comparisons as long as your love and attention are not conditional on your child being the best. Show your child that you love them just the way they are, and teach them that practice and effort lead to improvement.
● Play lots of games with your child, especially board games that involve learning rules and taking turns. These games help children learn to accept both winning and losing. Remember, play – however simple it may seem – is one of the best preparations for school.

Practical preparation for starting school

Alongside boosting your child’s confidence and making school seem like an exciting adventure, your role as a parent includes helping them develop a higher level of independence than they have previously had.
For example, if your child has not yet mastered using the toilet independently, dressing and undressing, tying shoelaces, or helping themselves to food and drinks, it is important to practice these skills before school begins.

It is also helpful to walk the route to school several times over the summer, especially if your child will eventually go alone. Even if you will accompany them each day, knowing the route, including any roads they will need to cross, and learning how to do so safely with your guidance, is essential.

As a parent, you will also need to make some practical decisions.

If all the adults in your household work and there is no family member at home to care for your child after school, now is the time to decide whether your child will attend extended day care or if someone else will look after them.
If you plan for your child to stay home alone, make sure there is a reliable adult who can help if needed, and ideally who can accompany them to and from school during the first weeks.

Once you have decided how to manage the time between the end of school and your return from work, inform your child about the upcoming changes, introduce them to the people who will look after them, and ensure they are safe at home if they will be alone (with occasional supervision). Display important phone numbers in a visible spot and identify people they can turn to in case of an emergency (a neighbour or the parent of a school friend).

Most primary schools in Croatia offer extended day care for younger pupils. This allows children to stay under teacher supervision after lessons, complete their homework, eat lunch, play, and socialise until their parents finish work. Be sure to ask your school about this option.

Extra support for children who don’t speak Croatian

If your child has not previously attended any programme where they could learn basic Croatian, your main task in easing their school transition will be helping them learn simple Croatian words and expressions to help with everyday communication with staff and classmates.

Picture books and illustrated dictionaries can be great tools for this.

The first days of school are special moments!

Make sure to be available and dedicate time to your new pupil. Take them to school and pick them up in those early days, get to know their classmates and their parents, and show your pride and happiness about this new milestone in their life.

*Extended day care is a programme for younger primary school children in Croatia where they stay under the guidance of their classroom teacher until the end of their parents’ workday (up to 4pm). Children can complete homework, play, socialise, and eat meals. Care is also available before lessons begin, if parents start work early (if you, for example, start working before 8 a.m. and you do not wish to leave your child home alone), and it ends at 4 p.m. Extended day care involves a fee, but parents pay only a portion depending on household income per family member.

U okviru projekta Odrastanje - pristup informacijama o zdravlju, prehrani i odgovornoj skrbi, resursima i podršci za primarne skrbnike djece 0-6 godina iz Ukrajine Roda i Ured UNICEF-a za Hrvatsku organizirali su webinar na temu zdravstvene skrbi za djecu u Hrvatskoj.

Kako je u Hrvatskoj organizirana zdravstvena skrb o zdravoj i bolesnoj djeci, od rođenja do školske dobi, kako funkcionira rana intervencija i koje su opcije skrbi o djeci s poteškoćama u razvoju, saznajte prateći ovaj webinar.

When seeking healthcare services, you have the right to choose a general practitioner or family doctor, a dentist, and a gynaecologist. These doctors are usually based in a shared facility called a community health centre.

Doctors are typically selected based on your place of residence and the nearest community health centre, depending on whether they have availability for new patients.

You can find a list of community health centres[1]  by city in Croatia at the following link.

The Croatian healthcare system includes various types of hospitals—clinical hospital centres, clinical hospitals, general hospitals, and other types of specialized institutions—each providing different levels of medical care.

A clinical hospital centre is the largest and most comprehensive type of hospital in the Republic of Croatia, offering a full range of diagnostic, examination and therapeutic procedures. There are five clinical hospital centres in Croatia - two in Zagreb, and one each in Rijeka, Split and Osijek.

A clinical hospital is smaller than a clinical hospital centre, but larger and better equipped than a general hospital. Croatia has three clinical hospitals, all located in Zagreb.

A general hospital provides general healthcare services. It is smaller and less well equipped than a clinical hospital centre or clinical hospital but is larger and offers more medical services than specialized clinics or special hospitals. 

Beyond these, clinics and special hospitals focus on treating specific diseases or medical conditions.

For a comprehensive list of hospital contacts click here.

As a person seeking international protection or someone granted asylum, subsidiary, or temporary protection, you can exercise your social welfare rights by registering at the nearest office of the Croatian Social Work Institute.

You  can search for contacts of central, county and regional offices of the Croatian Social Work Institute, as well as all registered social service providers  here. Since the provider database is a search engine with multiple filters and is available only in Croatian, you can contact the regional offices of the Croatian Social Work Institute for assistance with specific needs.

Registry offices maintain state registers, recording vital events such as births, marriages, and deaths, along with other legally established personal status information. 

Here you can find the contact details of registry offices in Croatia.  

When seeking legal assistance or handling a court-related matter, you should contact the court that has jurisdiction over your place of residence—unless responding to a summons, in which case the specific court will be indicated.  For a complete list of court contacts, visit the provided link.

If you can't find your way around on the websites of Croatian institutions, you can get all the necessary contacts and instructions.

Find in one place the contact information of institutions necessary for navigating upon entering Croatia. Click on this link.

In September 2024, the City of Zagreb and UNHCR opened the Welcome Centre for Refugees and Migrants - One Stop Shop, a central hub for providing information to refugees and migrants. Located in the heart of the city at Petrinjska Street 31, near the Police Department building, 

this is the first centre of its kind in Croatia. The One Stop Shop offers foreigners guidance on administrative procedures necessary for accessing various rights in Croatia, along with support for integration into society. Among the many services available, visitors can find out where to take Croatian language courses. 

Opening hours of the centre

Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., 
Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The One Stop Shop can be reached by phone and e-mail: 

Phone: +38517001974
Mobile phone: 091 1622129
E-mail: integracija.stranaca@zagreb.hr

Additionally, volunteers from the Legal Clinic are available on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to provide general legal information. 

As Anna Rich, UNHCR Representative in Croatia, emphasized, "Accurate and timely information makes a crucial difference in the lives of individuals and families who often face challenges as they adapt to a new environment and rebuild their lives. 

Initiatives like this bring us closer to the goal of ensuring that refugees and migrants can access all the essential information they need for integration in one place.

To make it easier for you to navigate legal assistance, the Croatian Law Centre has created a poster with contact information where you can request and receive legal support.

In Croatian: https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/plakat_hrv.pdf

In Arabic: https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/plakat_arapski.pdf

In Farsi: https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/plakat_farsi.pdf

In English: https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/plakat_engleski.pdf

This material has been distributed to all social work institutes, foster homes, juvenile and children's homes, and other organizations working with unaccompanied children in Croatia.

The goal is to ensure that, upon first contact, an unaccompanied child hears an audio recording in a language they understand. This would give unaccompanied children essential information immediately upon their arrival in Croatia, easing the work of those responsible for their care and improving their stay in the country.

If you are an unaccompanied child in Croatia, report to the first official person you encounter—such as a police officer at the border or in the city where you arrive. As an unaccompanied child, you will be assigned a guardian to ensure your protection and safeguard your rights.

Below, you can access the informational material in audio format in:

• Arabic https://soundcloud.com/hrvatski-pravni-centar-croatian-law-centre/tekst-za-audio-zapis-arapski-final
• Pashto https://soundcloud.com/hrvatski-pravni-centar-croatian-law-centre/tekst-za-audio-zapis-pastu-final
• Farsi https://soundcloud.com/hrvatski-pravni-centar-croatian-law-centre/tekst-za-audio-zapis-farsi-final
• English https://soundcloud.com/hrvatski-pravni-centar-croatian-law-centre/tekst-za-audio-zapis-engleski-final
• Croatian https://soundcloud.com/hrvatski-pravni-centar-croatian-law-centre/tekst-za-audio-zapis-hrvatski-finalmp3

You can download the text of the material in Croatian  here .

In honour of World Refugee Day 2020, CLC produced nine instructional videos titled "You Too Have the Right To...". In these videos, CLC lawyers explain specific rights guaranteed to persons with international protection and how to exercise them in practice.

The video materials are available on the CLC YouTube page .

Additionally, these valuable resources are available as brochures in Croatian, English, Arabic, and Farsi, which can be downloaded below:

Croatian https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Iako-si-izbjeglica-i-ti-imas-pravo.pdf
English https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Although-you-are-a-refugee-you-too-have-the-right-to-1.pdf
Arabic https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Iako-si-izbjeglica-i-ti-imas-pravo_ARABIC.pdf
Farsi https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Iako-si-izbjeglica-i-ti-imas-pravo-FARSI.pdf

The Croatian Law Centre has published a concise brochure that clearly explains, in a question-and-answer format, how legal advice for international protection seekers works in Croatia.

Croatian https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/brosura_hrv.pdf
English https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/brosura_eng.pdf
Arabic https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/brosura_arapski.pdf
Farsi https://www.hpc.hr/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/brosura_farsi.pdf

The brochure "Right to Work" contains key information and answers to numerous questions related to the employment and labour rights of applicants for international protection, persons granted international protection and persons under temporary protection, including the protection of these rights.

The brochure is available in multiple languages:

Croatian CLC-Right to Work- Croatian

English CLC-Right to Work - English

Russian CLC-Right to Work- Russian 

Ukrainian  CLC-Right to Work- Ukrainian

French CLC-Right to Work - French

Turkish CLC-Right to Work- Turkish

Farsi CLC-Right to Work - Farsi

The brochure was created by the Croatian Law Centre, UNHCR's implementing partner in Croatia, in cooperation with the Croatian Employment Service.