Feeling monsters helps children: mediators solve school conflicts in Munich

Feeling monsters helps children: mediators solve school conflicts in Munich

München, Deutschland - Walburga Kortz and Ursula Baur-Schad have been the proven mediators at the St. Anna primary school in Munich for a year and a half. As part of the “Senior Partner in School” (SIS) project, the two work tirelessly to solve conflicts under primary school children. As the tz have already supported a variety of children in coping with their everyday worries. SIS has been active since 2011 and has now mobilized 70 mediators at 30 Munich schools.

The training of the mediators comprises an impressive 80 hours and teaches non -violent communication and mediation techniques. Once a week Kortz and Baur-Schad offer an open space for the students in which they voluntarily come together to discuss their problems. In 45-minute meetings, the two help to find solutions, whereby the doll called "emotional monsters" acts as a distinguishing sign and anchor for the children.

high demand and support

The demand for mediations is great, and the reason for this is simple: children learn here how they can solve conflicts themselves constructively. It is also striking that the conversations are always subject to the obligation to commit and the trust of the children is not disappointed. However, SIS would like more financial support from the city to further promote the training of the volunteers. The Altstadt-Lehel district committee has already taken up this request and decided to support the program with 2000 euros.

For all those who are interested in the work of the mediators, an information meeting will take place on September 23 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The start of training is planned for October and promises an exciting opportunity for new volunteers.

A look at the organization

The Federal Association of “Senior Partners in School” recently held its annual general meeting in Berlin. A new board was elected on April 28 and 29, with Matthias Kraemer being unanimously elected as the 1st chairman. Among them are assessors such as Dr. Monika Reimann (Mediation) and Ute Matschull Mesfin (public relations). This meeting served not only the new election, but also to look back at the success of the volunteer organization and the planning of workshops on current challenges.

The importance of conventional mediation is becoming increasingly clear. The Hessian Ministry of Culture, Education and Opportunities also emphasizes that it not only helps to better understand conflicts and violence, but also contribute to violence prevention. The training strengthens the skills for conflict resolution and the formation of student mediator groups, a concept that is also becoming increasingly important in Munich. Further information can be called up via the Flyer of the Project

The positive development of these projects once again shows how important the work of mediators in schools is. They make a valuable contribution to creating a harmonious coexistence and promote the social skills of the children - and with a lot of heart and commitment.