About Stichting Kanjertraining
Stichting Kanjertraining: Empowering Children with Confidence and Communication Skills
Stichting Kanjertraining is a Dutch non-profit organization that provides training programs for children, parents, and teachers to promote positive social interactions, emotional intelligence, and mental well-being. The word "Kanjer" means "hero" or "champion" in Dutch, reflecting the organization's mission to empower children with confidence and communication skills to overcome challenges and build healthy relationships.
The Kanjertraining approach is based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution-focused therapy (SFT), which emphasize the importance of self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, assertiveness, problem-solving, and goal-setting. The training programs are designed for different age groups (4-18 years old) and settings (schools or private practice), but they share common goals:
- To create a safe and respectful learning environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
- To teach children how to recognize their own feelings and needs as well as those of others.
- To provide practical tools for managing conflicts constructively without resorting to violence or bullying.
- To foster positive attitudes towards diversity, inclusion, tolerance, respect for differences in culture or religion.
The Kanjertraining method consists of four colors that represent different types of behavior:
- White: insecure behavior such as withdrawal or avoidance
- Red: aggressive behavior such as teasing or fighting
- Black: defensive behavior such as blaming or lying
- Yellow: assertive behavior such as expressing opinions or asking for help
Children learn how to identify these colors in themselves and others through role-playing exercises that simulate real-life situations. They also learn how to use specific phrases that correspond to each color:
White phrases:
"I don't know"
"I'm scared"
"I need help"
Red phrases:
"That's not fair!"
"You're stupid!"
"I hate you!"
Black phrases:
"It's not my fault"
"You started it!"
"Don't tell anyone!"
Yellow phrases:
"I think..."
"I feel..."
"What can we do?"
By using these colors and phrases effectively in communication with others, children can improve their social skills significantly. They also gain more confidence in themselves by receiving positive feedback from peers who appreciate their efforts.
Parents are also involved in the Kanjertraining process by attending workshops on parenting skills related to emotional coaching. They learn how to support their children's emotional development by listening actively without judgmental comments; validating feelings; setting clear boundaries; modeling appropriate behaviors; praising effort rather than outcome.
Teachers receive extensive training on classroom management strategies that promote a positive learning climate based on mutual respect between students. They learn how to prevent bullying by recognizing early warning signs; intervening promptly when necessary; involving parents if needed; providing follow-up support for victims.
Stichting Kanjertraining has been recognized nationally and internationally for its innovative approach towards promoting mental health among young people. It has trained thousands of professionals worldwide who have implemented its methods successfully in various contexts.
If you want your child(ren)to benefit from this effective program please contact us today!