The first activity of the Erasmus+ KA210 project “Small Steps, Big Resilience: Helping Children Face Natural Disasters” was successfully completed in Daugavpils, Latvia, on May 6–7, 2025. The project unites partners from Greece, Latvia, and Bulgaria in an effort to develop innovative educational tools that foster children’s resilience to natural disasters.

The kick-off meeting gathered educators and institutional representatives from the partner countries. Greece was represented by the 4th Primary School of Tyrnavos (project coordinator), the 3rd Kindergarten of Ampelonas, and the social cooperative COMMEDI. Latvia hosted the meeting through its partner preschool, and the Bulgarian team joined from the 4th Primary School "Prof. John Atanasov".

The first day included welcome greetings, a presentation of the project goals and timeline by the Greek coordinator, and partner introductions. Discussions covered financial rules, task distribution, and tools for activity monitoring. In the evening, participants engaged in a cultural dinner and informal networking.

The second day focused on planning the upcoming workshop in Greece, the methodology for assessing young learners’ needs, and strategies for raising community awareness around natural disaster preparedness.

A highlight of the day was the interactive workshop led by Ms. Alexandra Kolitsa from COMMEDI. She introduced participants to the educational value of using comics through a mock graphic guide designed by COMMEDI’s artists. The mock-up included informational content and interactive materials tailored to young children. Ms. Kolitsa engaged participants in group-based, game-like activities that demonstrated how comics can be used as tools for emotional support, storytelling, and learning in times of crisis.

With creativity, cooperation, and a shared vision, Small Steps, Big Resilience sets out to empower young learners and their communities—one step at a time.

Stay tuned for updates as the project travels next to Greece for the training workshop!