Summer School for Children without Parents

Dear Friends,

The school year has already started and the sun is not so bright any more but the youngsters from Sofia, Gabrovo and Berkovitsa are still talking about their summer school.

 We had exciting days during which we worked together on increasing the motivation of the youngsters, their self-confidence and trust in their own abilities.   

The main focus of the program this summer was placed on effective inclusion of the young people in the world outside care – development of abilities to adapt and to integrate. Strong attention was put on leadership and teamwork. The method which was used was experiential education – e.g. learning by experience.

The young people lived real adventures and challenges in nature - like expedition orientation with map and compass, which helped them build confidence in their own abilities. During the exercises they learned how to achieve goals, to work in a team but still strive for leadership, to be tolerant and responsible, as well as to respect the nature.

During the group work the youngsters had a task to become a team that functions effectively. The participants went through different stages of the process: from the creation of the communication rules of the group and distribution of roles to building trust between them.

After each practical exercise there were many discussions which helped youngsters reflect on their actions and see possible ways to practice what they learned during the game in the real life.

Thank you for being part of this through your contribution! For our youngsters it makes a difference.

Best wishes,

The Step for Bulgaria team