Series of educational events for children
The Andrey and Julia Dashin Foundation and Little Odysseus prioritize empathy and care in their joint projects. Understanding another’s feelings and needs requires seeing the world through their perspective and imagining oneself in their place to comprehend their mental pain and emotions.
It is important to recognize that not all individuals who require understanding can express their needs. This is why Dashin’s Foundation, in collaboration with Little Odysseus, is dedicated to promoting education through all its activities.
A seminar was conducted by Voula Yiagazoglou Papouda, a professor of special education at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and an author of children’s books and plays, on May 19 at Limassol Library. The seminar focused on creating awareness and developing empathy towards peers with disabilities. It aimed to promote positive behaviour of acceptance and mutual understanding among children and adults, be they classmates, friends, or acquaintances.
It can be challenging for children to comprehend and acknowledge that their peers may have different physical abilities. This lack of understanding, coupled with ignorance regarding disabilities, can lead to negative perceptions towards their peers who are already facing difficulties. A game or a fairy tale effectively educates children about these differences and helps them understand better.
Voula skillfully conveyed significant and intricate concepts to children in an engaging and easy-to-understand way. Through imaginative play and storytelling, the children gained insight into the challenges faced by others.
Teaching children the significance of accepting others’ differences is essential. Acceptance, empathy, and inclusion are powerful tools that help eliminate discrimination, intimidation, and distorted societal perceptions.
A seminar was organized for parents to discuss the theory of different types of disabilities and special educational needs. The session covered topics such as behavioural difficulties and the challenges faced by young children with understanding disabilities.
It’s not just humans who require care and empathy; our furry companions, both large and small, with their fuzzy and amusing personalities, also need attention and affection, especially those residing in shelters.
Another noteworthy occasion occurred when the Hippo Theater Group, a children’s theatre company, participated. The company was established in Athens by Fotis Dusos and Alexander Raptis, and they are known for creating meaningful productions for children and adults.
The Hippo Theater Group utilizes a combination of theatre acting theories, performance techniques, and live music to create captivating performances for adults and young audiences. These performances are based on a specific acting style that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, the group organizes drama and acting workshops encouraging interactive participation, allowing participants to develop their physical and mental abilities while receiving creative inspiration.
Last Saturday, May 20, the LMU Library hosted two theatrical shows catering to toddlers aged 4 to 6 and older children aged 7 to 9. Two charming and talented actresses from Greece performed an interactive show about a stray dog and a cat. The performance engaged children in a story that takes place in a harsh urban environment, highlighting the issue of homeless animals. By immersing themselves in the experiences of those who face this problem daily, the young audience learned to empathize, show compassion, and think critically about potential solutions.
Andrey and Julia Dashin’s Foundation and Little Odysseus aimed to raise awareness among adults and children about the significance of caring for vulnerable creatures. These include animals in shelters that require kindness, affection, and care.
Our active involvement in nurturing children’s compassion, understanding, acceptance, and empathy stems from our belief that they can transform the world. Given the prevalence of violence in our surroundings, instilling these values during their formative years is crucial. By utilizing play and art, we aim to raise awareness among parents, guardians and children about the significance of cultivating these traits.