On Thursday, October 9, 2025, Queen Letizia visited the Madrid headquarters of the charitable organization “Primeros Pasos” (“First Steps”). This visit marked the launch of an ambitious nationwide program aimed at strengthening support for families with young children. Her Majesty, long known for her deep commitment to early childhood development and mental health issues, personally sponsors this initiative, which seeks to transform support during one of the most vulnerable periods of life.
The essence of the new project lies in large-scale training for the foundation’s volunteer network, which numbers around nine thousand people across the country. A specially developed course, based on the latest research from the Royal Early Childhood Center, will provide volunteers with modern tools for working with parents. This isn’t just about psychological support, but concrete methods to help build healthy attachment, cope with stress, and create a positive environment for a child’s development from the very first days of life. Organizers noted that the program focuses on practical skills that volunteers can apply during their weekly visits to families in need of assistance.
During her visit to the center, Queen Letizia showed a deep commitment to the cause. She held an extended discussion with the foundation’s management, asking detailed questions about the structure of the training modules and the expected outcomes. Her Majesty then spoke with a group of volunteers who will be the first to participate in the pilot course. In an informal setting, they shared their experiences and expectations for the project. A particularly moving moment was her meeting with a young family receiving assistance from “Primeros Pasos.” The Queen devoted significant time to hearing their story and interacting with their young child, demonstrating genuine interest and empathy.
This event is more than just another official appearance. It forms part of Spain’s broader social policy strategy, which in recent years has increasingly focused on preventive support for families and children. Royal patronage plays a key role in this context, drawing public and business attention to the issue and lending the initiative special status and significance. Queen Letizia’s involvement ensures that the project receives the necessary attention and resources for nationwide implementation. In other words, the initiative has reached a new level.
After its pilot phase in Madrid, the volunteer training program is expected to be gradually rolled out in the largest regional branches of the foundation. Early next year, branches in Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville will join the project, and within two years the initiative aims to cover the entire ‘Primeros Pasos’ network. Experts predict that improving volunteer preparation will enable more effective and timely support for thousands of Spanish families, strengthening the social fabric of society.
