All the News at a Glance

Leaving school often brings with it many questions: How do I finance my studies? What do I need to consider for my first apartment? What insurance do I need? From May 18 to 21, the NRW consumer advice center will be supporting school leavers with online presentations on these topics as they take the step towards independence.

May 15 is International Family Day. An occasion to draw attention to the many dedicated foster families in North Rhine-Westphalia. Foster parents in on-call and full-time care look after children who cannot grow up with their biological parents with care and a lot of heart. In the video, foster parents, professionals and parents talk about their experiences.

A research project of the OWL Faculty of Medicine at Bielefeld University is investigating how much time 1 to 3-year-old children spend outdoors in spring/summer 2026 and where and how they come into contact with the natural environment. By taking part, you are helping to advance research into natural behavior and its influence on health.

Are you still looking for a simple craft idea for Mother's Day that doesn't involve buying lots of materials? These colorful flower cards are great fun for children to collect - and make an excellent little gift. A great activity for children aged 2 and up, even without a special occasion.

The tick season begins with the warm temperatures. Children in particular are at risk of being bitten by ticks when playing outdoors. Diseases such as Lyme disease or TBE can be transmitted. Find out how you can protect your child, when a vaccination against TBE is recommended and what to do after a tick bite.

Growing up without violence is one of the most important children's rights - the Day of Non-Violent Education on April 30 draws attention to this. But where does violence begin? How does it manifest itself? And what consequences does it have for children? UNICEF answers the most important questions.

Every two years, the European Youth Week brings together young people and institutions to shape, promote and celebrate the future of Europe. The 2026 motto is "Solidarity and Fairness": the focus will be on current issues such as intergenerational justice and the climate crisis, well-being, housing, employment and inclusion.

Tips for a strong sibling relationship, information on paternity acknowledgement, a new craft idea for spring and much more: the current April issue of our newsletter is all about topics that affect families in NRW. Not yet subscribed? Subscribe now and never miss an issue!

April 17 is dedicated to youth information throughout Europe. The day of action draws attention to the importance of reliable and understandable information for young people. The European Youth Portal offers verified content on topics such as political participation, rights, EU initiatives and opportunities to study and work abroad.

April 10 is the Day of Brothers and Sisters! The day of action focuses on the special relationship between brothers and sisters: Siblings share a common origin story, shape each other in many ways and often accompany each other throughout their lives. Find out what this bond means and how parents can strengthen it in our article.

Discover Europe, meet new people and gain unforgettable experiences: DiscoverEU gives 18-year-olds the chance to win a free Interrail ticket. Applications can be submitted until April 22, 2026. Those who are selected can travel across Europe for up to seven days in the summer and benefit from numerous discounts.

Cliché-free career and study choices for everyone: Girls'Day and Boys'Day offer the chance to get to know training occupations and fields of study that girls and boys may not have thought about before.