Thematic seminar within the DP5YOU project: recreational and wellness activities
On March 22, 2026, as part of the project “Digital Platform of Knowledge and Skills Development for Youth Working with Child Migrants and Refugees at the European Level” (DP5YOU), co-funded by the European Union, a thematic workshop was held to discuss and develop innovative approaches to working with migrant and refugee children, specifically the use of recreational activities as a means of their social integration and psychological support.
The event took place as part of the specialized training program “Capacity Building for Youth (Youth Workers): Specialized Training Programs for Effective Work with Vulnerable Groups of Children” and included a recreational component – “A Hike in the Mountains”. Its goal was to develop effective mechanisms, introduce new approaches, and build practical skills among youth who will work with vulnerable groups of children, as well as to produce video content for the project’s digital platform.
The event began with opening remarks by Yuriy Muzyka, First Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine, who highlighted the importance of this initiative and emphasized the significance of providing high-quality training for young people who will be working with vulnerable groups of children. In his speech, he emphasized that modern approaches, new knowledge, and practical skills are extremely important for ensuring the effective social integration and psychological support of migrant children, refugees, and other vulnerable groups.
The event’s expert was Olena Moroz, a PhD in Physical Education and Sports, Associate Professor at Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University, and a Master of Sports in rhythmic gymnastics. She introduced participants to modern approaches to organizing recreational activities when working with vulnerable groups of children, led an active warm-up using the flags of Ukraine and the European Union, and shared practical tools, mechanisms, and skills that can be effectively applied in the professional work of youth workers.
The participants actively engaged in all activities, demonstrating a high level of interest, motivation to learn, and a willingness to master new approaches to working with children. Throughout the seminar, the young people participated in outdoor games, recreational activities, practical exercises, and interactive sessions, which helped develop professional competencies and teamwork skills.
An important part of the event was the recording of videos for the DP5YOU project’s digital platform. The videos produced will be used as an educational resource aimed at disseminating effective practices, new mechanisms, and innovative approaches to working with migrant and refugee children at the European level.
The project coordinator, a PhD in Physical Education and Sports, associate professor, and head of the non-governmental organization “YOUTH. SCIENCE. SPORTS. HEALTHY MOVEMENT OF UKRAINE,” Yaroslav Galan, noted that the proposed approaches are extremely relevant for today’s youth, who seek practical tools for working with vulnerable groups of children. He emphasized that such activity formats are engaging for children, promote their participation and socialization, and foster a positive emotional environment. Particular emphasis was placed on the value of using equipment and supplies, which significantly expands opportunities for recreational activities and enhances their effectiveness.
The event brought together active young people, Ukrainian partners, experts, and representatives of the project team and partner organizations, who worked together to develop new ideas, mechanisms, and practical solutions in the field of youth work with migrant and refugee children.
The thematic workshop marked an important milestone in the implementation of the DP5YOU project, confirming the relevance of innovative recreational practices as an effective tool for social integration, psychological support, and professional training for youth workers in their work with vulnerable groups of children.
