YOUTHLYMPICS: SUMMER CAMP ERASMUS + WITH OUR ADOLESCENTS FROM PECECITOS AND ADOLESCENTS FROM DENMARK

     By Rylea Bott

The Erasmus+ Youthympics project brought together Danish and Spanish children to participate in intercultural sports workshops with a European dimension. Through engaging physical activities, the initiative fostered cultural exchange, encouraging values such as teamwork, respect, and inclusion. By blending movement with meaningful connection, the project created a playful yet powerful space for young participants to learn from one another and grow together across borders

The values of teamwork, respect, and inclusion were introduced at the very first workshop. Participants from both countries were divided up into different groups and were led through a series of activities testing both communication and teamwork skills. The children were able to meet and connect with each other even through the cultural and language barriers that were present. At the end of the activity the participants reflected on a series of questions regarding teamwork and worked together to artistically demonstrate what teamwork means to them.      

 

The children from Spain and Denmark came together to participate in inclusive sports activities such as football, basketball, and beach volleyball. These workshops were designed not only for fun but to promote teamwork, respect, and friendship across cultures. The kids played side by side, learned each other's names, cheered each other on, and celebrated victories together, creating bonds that transcended language barriers.

To provide a creative counterbalance to the physical activities, a ceramics workshop focused on European Union values was offered. Participants got hands-on with clay, molding and decorating pieces that reflected themes like unity, diversity, and peace. This calm, meditative experience allowed the children to express their creativity and reflect on the values shared across European cultures. 

Taking in the beautiful sights of the surrounding landscape, participants were guided along the Via Verde, a historic greenway that once served as a railway line connecting coastal towns. The children had the opportunity to learn about the history of Bennicasim while engaging in physical activity through hiking and take in the beautiful ocean views.

 

The children had the opportunity to participate in a water adventure where they were able to do a series of activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or sliding down a water slide. For many, it was a leap into the unknown and a new experience they approached with curiosity and courage. As some glided across the water and others searched for balance on their boards, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and shared excitement. Beyond the activity itself, this moment represented the challenge of pushing boundaries, building self-confidence, and finding joy in the unexpected. 

To better understand how the children experienced the project, a short feedback questionnaire was shared at the end of their experience. Below, you’ll find a summary of their responses that capture their favorite memories, what they learned and the impact of intercultural exchange on their personal growth. 

Through each carefully designed activity, from the early teamwork challenges to shared laughter on the water, participants developed not only new skills but also meaningful relationships with their peers from another country. Whether passing a ball or shaping clay, the children continually practiced the values of inclusion, respect, and cooperation. To better understand how the children experienced the project, a short feedback questionnaire was shared at the end of their experience.

The Erasmus+ Youthympics project proved to be much more than a series of sports and creative workshops, but was a vibrant space for growth, discovery, and connection across cultures!!

Thanks so much from the ILÊWASI team!