// Module 2 FOR EDUCATION PROFESSIONALS

Language has impact – whether we intend it or not. Even casual remarks like “Just do it like the others” or “You just need to try harder” carry messages that reach children and young people more deeply than we realise. Between the lines, they create role expectations, judgements, and labels that can shape self-image – or, in the worst case, lead to shame and exclusion. This workshop on educational communication takes a closer look at our own language. Which words do we choose in conflict situations? How do we speak with quiet, disruptive, or emotionally unsettled children? Which phrases do we unconsciously repeat – and what effect do they have? Drawing on real-life examples from educational practice, we reflect on: Which expressions build trust, agency, and a sense of belonging? How does language exclude, wound, or shame – and how can this be avoided? How can inclusive, gender-sensitive, and respectful language be integrated into schools and educational settings? The focus is on reflecting on language in practice, making conscious word choices – and experimenting with new formulations that foster and strengthen relationships. A workshop for everyone who wants to sharpen their linguistic presence and communicate more intentionally in everyday educational work – so that children not only feel heard, but truly understood.

In every classroom, youth group, or childcare setting, group dynamics emerge – often quickly, usually unspoken, yet always powerful. Children form alliances, while others are left out. Some take on dominant roles early, while others withdraw. These social processes can build up or break down, foster belonging or deepen exclusion. This workshop is designed for educators who want to guide group dynamics with intention. At its core are practical questions such as: How can quiet children be encouraged and dominant children constructively included? What interventions help when the group atmosphere starts to tip? What do children need to truly feel part of a community? Through real-life case examples, interactive methods, and guided reflection, participants develop concrete strategies for fostering healthy group processes. The goal is to create educational settings where children and young people feel seen, heard, and empowered – and where community becomes a source of strength and support.

Insults in class group chats, embarrassing photos going viral within seconds, or seemingly harmless gaming contacts that turn out to be adults with sexual intentions – many digital risks remain hidden from adults. For children and young people, however, chats, social media, and online games are an everyday reality. This makes it all the more important for educators to actively engage with these digital worlds – and to play a part in creating safety within them. This workshop focuses on two key issues: Cyberbullying: Digital insults, exclusion, or public shaming – with often serious consequences for those affected. Cybergrooming: Adults deliberately approaching minors online to build trust – and later exploit it. Together, we explore practical answers to essential questions: How can early warning signs be recognised – in victims, bystanders, and perpetrators? Which protective measures are effective – technically, legally, and pedagogically? How should suspected cases be addressed – and how can we talk to children about them? How can children and young people be empowered to better protect themselves and others? Alongside legal basics, the emphasis is on prevention. Using case studies, communication techniques, and reflection, participants develop effective strategies for educational practice – in schools, after-school care, and non-formal education. A workshop for all who want to protect children where they spend much of their daily lives: in the digital space.

Always reachable, constantly online – and yet many young people today experience loneliness, social pressure, and emotional overload. Social media not only changes how they communicate, but also how they build friendships, experience closeness, and feel a sense of belonging. What looks like connection can in reality create distance. Communication becomes faster, but also more fleeting; likes and story reactions replace personal conversations. Group dynamics increasingly shift into digital spaces – leading to exclusion, misunderstandings, or subtle forms of devaluation. At the same time, digital dependency grows: the constant urge to check the phone, the fear of missing out (FOMO), and the endless comparison with seemingly perfect online lives directly impact concentration, self-image, sleep patterns – and especially the way young people experience relationships. The workshop focuses on: A deeper understanding of the psychological effects of social media on children and adolescents Reflection on how online communication shapes friendships, self-worth, and group belonging Case studies from schools and youth work – from TikTok to class chats Strategies to foster media reflection and emotional presence – without moralising A workshop for educators who know: relationships remain central – even between likes, stories, and group chats.

Cooperation instead of competition, active listening instead of outshining, experience instead of lecture: This workshop focuses on the power of play as an educational tool. Because it is through play that social skills are not taught theoretically, but lived, experienced, and often learned almost effortlessly along the way. How do I make decisions in a group? How do I deal with frustration and failure? And how does it feel when my idea is heard and put into action? Whether in the classroom, the gym, or the schoolyard – educational games open up countless opportunities to strengthen children’s and young people’s self-awareness, communication skills, and emotional development. The workshop introduces tried-and-tested methods and game formats that are easy to implement and go far beyond mere movement or entertainment. At the heart of it all lies the question: What do children learn about themselves and about others – and how can educators guide this process effectively? Key contents: Which games foster social competences such as cooperation, empathy, and responsibility How educators can actively recognise and guide group dynamics through play Practical examples that combine movement, fun, and relationship-building Reflection on how play supports self-esteem and a sense of belonging A workshop for everyone who wants to make social learning lively, sustainable, and joyful – through games that literally move.