Creativity of Estonian Children

This programme is oriented around the observation that children like to gather in groups and do things together. Organisers believe that cooperation helps children understand each other better, and conceive of how to treat others in friendly, polite, and helpful ways. The notion is that, by creating this kind of atmosphere, children will realise their creativity and enjoy increased self-esteem - in turn entering school with a healthy attitude toward learning in general, and toward learning about and in partnership with others, in particular.

As an example of this communication strategy, organisers have used group activities in an effort to integrate Russian-speaking children into the Estonian cultural environment. The programme aims to shape the attitudes that Russian children might have toward their Estonian peers by using the medium of group theatre to inspire children to communicate with each other in new ways. The hope is that "When Estonian and Russian children play together the language barrier disappears and they understand each other." For instance, "Friend's Day" provides an opportunity for both Estonian and Russian kids to interact freely. Children learn about the history of Tallinn, and are introduced to new ideas about Estonian and Russian languages, cultures, and traditions. The building of intercultural awareness and a spirit of tolerance toward and interest in those who are different is thought to be crucial to creative, healthy early childhood development.

Offerings for special needs children aim to develop children's practical and social skills through games and other entertaining programmes. In an effort to "help children with special needs find their place in the today's society, through helping them discover their inner world", the programme organises fieldtrips, museum visits, and knowledge quizzes that are designed to create interest and pride in the children's hometown. Puppetry is another technique used to entertain these children while stimulating their creative development. During school holidays, children are invited to take part in the "Fairytale Festival", which involves peer performance to an audience of 3 kindergartens. An activity group consisting of 12 children creates the puppets and decorations for this event.

Early Childhood Development, Intercultural Cooperation.

The project coordinator explains, "I am a psychologist and I have worked a lot with children who belong to the risk groups and who have special needs. I saw how they were left alone with their problems and how neither they're parents nor the government cared about their well-being and they're future. This encouraged me to start our project. The other reason is that the Estonian government does not support or help Russian-speaking children. They say a lot, but don't take any action. Our project deals mainly with Russian children, giving them a chance and helping them in this society."