Leisure time is an important commodity for every child and adolescent, as it represents their time outside of school obligations. During that time, they can freely engage in activities that relax, entertain and facilitate personal development. Day centres for children and adolescents enable them to spend their leisure time in a quality and effective way. The master's thesis explores the topic of leisure time for children and adolescents in five day centres: CONA Cent'r, CONA Fužine, CONA Polje, CONA Korak and CONA Moste. From users' perspective, it reveals their reasons for attending, the significance of their visits, interpersonal relationships, progress, satisfaction and their wishes. Consequently, the functioning and effectiveness of the day centres are also demonstrated.
The research was based on descriptive and quantitative methodology, utilizing a structured electronic questionnaire. The sample consisted of 92 users of the CONA day centres.
From the research, I have been able to conclude that friends are the most common source of motivation for visiting the day centre. Among the services offered by the centre, most users value conversations with staff the most. They feel safe, respected, accepted and heard. They also have a good relationship with both the staff and other users of the centre. These good relationships are primarily due to mutual understanding. Most users believe they are making progress in all areas of life through their involvement at the day centre. They occasionally or frequently participate in the leisure activities offered. The most common activity among users is playing board games, while cultural events are attended the least. They are satisfied with the facilities, the selection of leisure activities and the day centre's schedule. They are most satisfied with the staff. Most users do not wish for any changes at the centre. However, some of the users expressed a desire for changes in the physical space.
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