Lao PDR launches “Luem Ton Di” parenting initiative to bring Vroom brain-building to every home

Vientiane, 22 August 2025 - The Lao Women’s Union and UNICEF today launched “Luem Ton Di” (“Good Starts”), the Lao adaptation of Vroom - an innovative parenting tool developed by the Bezos Family Foundation. Vroom is present in more than 35 countries and has reached millions of parents and caregivers worldwide, offering simple, science-based tips that turn everyday moments into opportunities to boost children’s early brain development.

“Parenting is the foundation for strong families and strong societies,” said Ms. Lavan Southisan, Vice president of Lao Women Union. “Luem Ton Di reflects the wisdom of our communities and the strength of our traditions, while also bringing in global best practices for raising children.”

Announced during the Lao Women’s Union’s 70th anniversary year, partners underscored that the first 1,000 days - from pregnancy to age two - shape a child’s lifelong learning, health and well-being. In these early years, over one million neural connections form every second; love, play, talk and responsive caregiving make the difference.

“Luem Ton Di shows that brain-building happens everywhere: at the market, on the walk to school, during mealtimes and bedtime,” said Magali Romedenne, UNICEF Lao PDR Deputy Representative “With Vroom’s simple prompts adapted for Lao families, every caregiver can help children thrive.”

“Luem Ton Di demonstrates the power of simple, everyday moments to support a child’s growth,” said Vanessa Hegarty, First Secretary, Australian Embassy in Lao PDR. “Australia is proud to partner with the Lao Women’s Union and UNICEF to ensure more families have the tools they need to give their children the best possible start in life.”

The science-backed information developed by child-development experts and localized with Lao communities will reach families in two ways. Trained village facilitators will run practical sessions using activity cards and live demonstrations, and an innovative, interactive messaging service will deliver regular tips and encouragement directly to caregivers via WhatsApp—free and available to anyone with a mobile phone, ensuring parenting support can reach even the most remote households.

Luem Ton Di is being integrated into the Love and Care for Every Child by UNICEF Australia with funding from the Australian NGO Cooperation Program.

The Lao Women’s Union, UNICEF and partners will work with communities to expand access to Luem Ton Di so that every child in Lao PDR not only survives but truly thrives.