We wanted to enhance teachers’ capacity in eco-art and eco-psychology, strengthen their non-formal education competences, and provide accessible educational resources for wider stakeholders, which is why we developed the SEEDS training curriculum and educational materials and conducted teacher training in Spain, and implemented school-based activities and workshops for students in both Cyprus and Spain. Additional hands-on eco-art workshops, sensory experiences, and nature-based exercises enabled teachers to enhance their well-being and therefore the well-being of their students and to gain practical skills and confidence in applying the program. The creation of the SEEDS website supported dissemination to over 1,000 stakeholders. Continuous project management, coordination, and quality assurance ensured smooth implementation, aligning all activities with the objectives to promote wellbeing, environmental awareness, and innovative educational practices.
We observed, in both Cyprus and Spain, that young children are increasingly disconnected from nature due to the dominance of technology in their daily lives, while teachers have limited access to practical methodologies that combine environmental education with creativity and psycho-social support. At the same time, challenges related to emotional expression, social interaction, and inclusion were evident in early education settings. To address these needs, we aimed to create an innovative psycho-educational program and educational material that integrates eco-art, environmental awareness, and psycho-social learning, alongside practical tools and training for teachers based on non-formal and experiential methods. Additionally, the project sought to introduce inclusive, nature-based activities that promote emotional well-being, creativity, and collaboration among students. Through the collaboration between Cyprus and Spain, the project responded to these shared needs by equipping teachers with concrete methodologies and fostering a stronger connection between children, their communities, and the natural environment.