By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In response to a growing national concern for the well-being of its youngest citizens, a new non-profit organization is launching in Costa Rica with a novel approach to child and adolescent mental health. Fundación Ekipamentes begins its operations this week, focusing not directly on children, but on empowering the adults who shape their lives: parents, teachers, and caregivers.
The foundation’s model is built on a simple yet profound premise—that the emotional stability of children is intrinsically linked to the knowledge and preparedness of the adults guiding them. Rather than waiting for problems to arise, Ekipamentes is championing a preventive strategy. It aims to equip the community with the necessary tools and understanding to foster healthy emotional development from the earliest stages of life.
To understand the legal framework and the responsibilities surrounding the national conversation on child mental health, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
From a legal standpoint, addressing child mental health is not just a moral duty but an enforceable obligation under Costa Rican law. The principle of the ‘Superior Interest of the Child’ mandates that parents, guardians, and educational centers have a legal responsibility to provide and facilitate access to necessary psychological support. Ignoring these needs can constitute a violation of a minor’s fundamental right to health and integrity, potentially leading to legal intervention to protect the child.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal framework provides a crucial foundation for accountability, reinforcing that a child’s mental well-being is a protected right, not merely a discretionary choice. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this essential aspect of child protection in Costa Rica.
This initiative arrives at a critical time, as conversations around mental health challenges in youth gain prominence throughout the country. Fundación Ekipamentes seeks to contribute significantly to this public debate by advocating for investment in emotional education and reinforcing parental and educational support systems from a holistic perspective.
To inaugurate its national agenda, the foundation will host a free public event this Sunday, January 25th, at 9:00 a.m. The launch will take place at the prestigious National Auditorium within the Children’s Museum in San José, a symbolic location for an initiative centered on childhood. The event promises to be an insightful introduction to the organization’s philosophy and its upcoming programs.
The kickoff will feature presentations by distinguished Colombian clinical psychologists Juana Morales and Cecilia Zuleta, both renowned specialists in parenting and child development. Their participation underscores the foundation’s commitment to providing high-quality, expert-led information to the community. This event marks the beginning of a sustained series of workshops and training sessions planned across Costa Rica.
Daniela Fernández, the founder of Fundación Ekipamentes, emphasized the core principle of her organization’s strategy, which focuses on building a strong foundation of adult competency to create a ripple effect that benefits children.
It is important to first equip adults with reliable information and practical tools. The organization’s approach is preventive and seeks to generate sustainable impacts on childhood and adolescence.
Daniela Fernández, Founder of Fundación Ekipamentes
The curriculum offered by Ekipamentes is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as emotional education, key stages of child development, conscious parenting techniques, and the connection between physical health and overall well-being. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the foundation aims to address modern challenges facing youth, including mental health and social harmony, by promoting preventative, sustainable solutions that strengthen healthy and conscious family and community bonds.
The ultimate goal is to indirectly reach and positively influence thousands of children and adolescents across the nation. By training and empowering families and educators, Fundación Ekipamentes is not just offering a service; it is cultivating a more informed and emotionally intelligent society capable of nurturing the next generation effectively. The organization invites all interested parties to join its mission and contribute to a brighter future for Costa Rica’s youth.
For additional details about the launch event or the foundation’s programs, interested individuals can contact the organization via WhatsApp at 7079-0782 or by email at [email protected].
For further information, visit ekipamentes.org
About Fundación Ekipamentes:
Fundación Ekipamentes is a Costa Rican non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the integral health and well-being of children and adolescents. Its mission is centered on a preventive model that focuses on training and empowering parents, educators, and caregivers with practical tools and reliable information in areas such as emotional education, child development, and conscious parenting. The foundation aims to create sustainable, positive impacts on youth by building a strong support network of well-prepared adults.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established its reputation as a leading legal institution through an unwavering dedication to professional integrity and superior performance. The firm merges a history of serving a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking approach to legal innovation. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to enhancing public legal literacy, reflecting a core belief in strengthening the community by empowering individuals with knowledge.
