This toolbox is an in-depth guide to the methods and tools used during the Youth Exchange Program in Étrœungt, France 3-9 October 2023. Aimed at educators, facilitators, and participants, this toolbox provides a step-by-step guide to each activity, complete with learning objectives, time needed, materials required, and debriefing suggestions. Please bear in mind that during our Youth Exchange we have adapted some methods as the group dynamics permitted so. We also had a very nice Escape Room created by one of our participants that is not documented yet here (though he promised us he will come back with a detailed description of his escape room). The following tool-box represents the initial planning of the YE. Remember the plan on the paper is not always the final result so be ready to adapt and change!
Ice-Breaking Games
Two Truths and a Lie
•Learning Objective: To get to know each other better and build rapport.
•Time Needed: 15-20 minutes
•Materials Needed: None
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Gather participants in a circle.
2.Each participant takes turns saying two true statements and one false statement about themselves.
3.The group tries to guess which statement is the lie.
•Possible Debriefing: Discuss the importance of open communication and trust in team-building.
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Speed Dating on Topics
•Learning Objective: To spark interest and debate on various topics.
•Time Needed: 30 minutes
•Materials Needed: Pre-defined topic cards
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Prepare cards with topics related to climate change, sustainability, etc.
2.Participants rotate and discuss each topic for 2-3 minutes.
3.Rotate until each participant has discussed each topic.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the diversity of opinions and how different perspectives enrich the group’s understanding.
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Group Contract
•Learning Objective: To establish ground rules and expectations.
•Time Needed: 30 minutes
•Materials Needed: Whiteboard, markers
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Gather participants in a circle.
2.Facilitate a discussion on expectations, rules, and hopes for the program.
3.Write down the agreed-upon points on a whiteboard.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the importance of collective decision-making and commitment.
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Climate Education
Climate Facts and Myths
•Learning Objective: To debunk common misconceptions about climate change.
•Time Needed: 45 minutes
•Materials Needed: Prepared statements on climate facts and myths, projector for presentations
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Divide participants into small groups.
2.Provide each group with a series of statements about climate change.
3.Groups discuss and categorize each statement as a fact or myth.
4.Each group presents their findings.
•Possible Debriefing: Discuss the dangers of misinformation and the importance of scientific literacy.
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World Café
•Learning Objective: To facilitate in-depth discussions on various climate-related topics.
•Time Needed: 1 hour
•Materials Needed: Tables, chairs, topic cards, pens, and paper
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Set up tables with different topics related to climate change.
2.Participants rotate tables every 10 minutes.
3.At each table, participants discuss the topic and jot down key points.
4.After rotations, gather for a group discussion to share insights.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the interconnectedness of climate issues and the value of diverse perspectives.
Creative Expression
Theater Methods
•Learning Objective: To use creative expression as a medium for climate awareness.
•Time Needed: 1-2 hours
•Materials Needed: Open space, props for skits
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Divide participants into small groups.
2.Assign each group a climate-related topic.
3.Groups brainstorm and prepare a short skit on their topic.
4.Perform skits for the entire group.
•Possible Debriefing: Discuss the impact of creative methods in raising awareness and promoting action.
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Video Content Creation
•Learning Objective: To learn how to use digital media for climate advocacy.
•Time Needed: 2-3 hours
•Materials Needed: Smartphones or cameras, editing software
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Divide participants into teams.
2.Assign or let teams choose a climate-related topic.
3.Teams storyboard, shoot, and edit a short video.
4.Share videos with the group and on social media.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the reach and impact of digital media in modern advocacy.
Policy and Advocacy
European Green Deal Debate
•Learning Objective: To understand the complexities of climate policies.
•Time Needed: 1-2 hours
•Materials Needed: Prepared statements, roles, and debate format
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Assign participants roles as politicians, journalists, or citizens.
2.Provide background information on the European Green Deal.
3.Facilitate a debate following a structured format.
4.Conclude with a summary of key points.
•Possible Debriefing: Discuss the challenges and opportunities in policy-making for climate action.
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Youth Goal 10 Discussion
•Learning Objective: To explore youth perspectives on a “Green and Sustainable Europe.”
•Time Needed: 1 hour
•Materials Needed: Whiteboard, markers, Youth Goal 10 background information
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Provide background information on Youth Goal 10.
2.Facilitate a discussion on what a “Green and Sustainable Europe” means to the participants.
3.Capture key points on a whiteboard.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the role of youth in shaping future policies.
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Self-Care and Emotional Well-being
•Tips and Tricks to Turn Climate Anxiety into Positive Action
•Learning Objective: To manage the emotional toll of climate change.
•Time Needed: 1 hour
•Materials Needed: Comfortable seating, calming environment
•Step by Step Instructions:
1.Create a safe space for open discussion.
2.Facilitate a conversation about climate anxiety.
3.Share coping mechanisms and strategies.
•Possible Debriefing: Discuss the importance of emotional well-being in long-term activism.
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Together for a Better World
•Learning Objective: To visualize and set goals for a better future.
•Time Needed: 1 hour
•Materials Needed: Magazines, scissors, glue, large paper
Step by Step Instructions:
1.Provide materials for creating vision boards.
2.Participants create vision boards that represent their ideal future.
3.Share and discuss vision boards.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the power of positive visualization in achieving goals.
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Action Planning
•Planning and Dissemination of Follow-up
•Learning Objective: To plan for continued climate action post-program.
•Time Needed: 1-2 hours
•Materials Needed: Whiteboard, markers, laptops for research
Step by Step Instructions:
1.Facilitate a brainstorming session on possible follow-up actions.
2.Groups or individuals present their plans.
3.Discuss and refine plans.
•Possible Debriefing: Reflect on the importance of continued action and community engagement.
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Compass for Life
•Learning Objective: To create individual action plans for climate action.
•Time Needed: 1 hour
•Materials Needed: Paper, pens
Step by Step Instructions:
1.Introduce the concept of an action plan.
2.Participants draft individual action plans.
3.Share and discuss plans.
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Possible Debriefing: Discuss the importance of individual contributions to collective action.
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