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Outdoor Activities for Inclusion

2019-2-FI01-KA105-0609622019Youth mobilityfinalized
Countries: FI|AM|AT|ES|FR|UA|IT|TR|AZ|RU · Grant: €52,615.96
Youth (Participation, Youth Work, Youth Policy)Inclusion - equityNew innovative curricula/educational methods/development of training courses

Objectives

In recent years, there has been a shift in the lifestyles of various age-groups, including children, especially in their late childhood. Unlike children a few decades ago, children today are leading increasingly sedentary lifestyles that involve time spent on computers and watching TV. This lifestyle leads them to neglect the physical activity that has been typical to this developmental period. Limited physical activity, or often a complete lack thereof, leads to various health problems, including posture problems (ex. scoliosis), somatic conditions, being overweight and obese, problems with circulation, and even premature death. Outdoor games and activities are important for the physical and cognitive development of children and teenagers. Being active in nature or in a semi-natural environment, implementing tasks promote active learning with direct personal experience. Being given a challenge, which an outdoor adventure can provide, young people learn to overcome their challenges and fears, and are given opportunities to develop their independence, which will help to build their confidence. Today we observe different organizations in Europe that offer outdoor activities and games. The wide range of activities such as backpacking, cycling, camping, canoeing, fishing, and etc. gives children and youngsters wide opportunities to find an activity according to their preference and passion. Taking into consideration that children and youngsters are at the age when they make most of their friends, and get to know other cultures by themselves, the outdoor activities can also be used as a tool for inclusion and integration of youngsters with fewer opportunities. Unfortunately, the potential for outdoor activities and games as a tool for inclusion and integration is not fully used. Youngsters facing cultural differences, social obstacles or educational difficulties will increase their opportunities for inclusion or integration, if outdoor games or activities are constructed or adjusted in a way to support this goal, or comprise of elements supporting it. Our partner consortium considered that youth workers, who are competent in implementing outdoor activities supporting intercultural learning and cooperation, are experienced in effective managing of groups including youngsters with fewer opportunities, have an important role in promoting integration and inclusion of youngsters with fewer opportunities. "Outdoor Activities for inclusion" was a multi-stage project that aims to expand the use of outdoor activities as a tool supporting inclusion in youth work. The objectives of the project were: -To acquire and improve competencies for using outdoor activities as a tool for inclusion in youth work -To acquire and improve competences on empathizing and defining the needs of target groups -To acquire and improve competences on developing, prototyping and testing outdoor activities supporting the inclusion in local communities -To acquire and improve competences on involving youth in developing Erasmus+ projects supporting inclusion through outdoor activities -To develop and disseminate a toolbox of outdoor games and activities supporting the inclusion We wanted to improve the level of key competencies and skills of youth workers and young people promote social inclusion - with this the project contributed to the first objective of the specific objectives pursued by the Erasmus+ Programme in the field of youth. On a long-lasting perspective, the project contributed to resolution Resolution of the Council of the European for the European Union Youth Strategy 2019-2027, in particular its core area: "Connect", to: -Enable access for all young people, as well as for youth workers, to cross-border mobility opportunities, including volunteering in the civil society sector, by eliminating obstacles and implementing support measures with special attention to young people with fewer opportunities. -Actively engaged young people and youth organisations in the design, implementation and evaluation of relevant EU funding programmes.

Project partners (11)