What the Methodology Is
Understanding the foundation and purpose of this approach
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The WellBee Participatory Learning Methodology is a youth-led, child-centred, non-formal educational approach designed to empower children to understand their rights, develop critical thinking and become active participants in society.
It combines elements of human rights education, outdoor learning, drama pedagogy, play-based learning and mindfulness practices to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences for children.
The core purpose of the methodology is to create spaces where children can learn, express their views and influence discussions on issues that affect their lives, such as children’s rights, climate change, digital literacy and wellbeing.
Through small group settings, active listening and age-appropriate activities, the methodology supports children in building self-confidence, empathy, collaboration skills and civic awareness.
How It Can Be Used
Practical applications and implementation guidance
This methodology can be applied in youth camps, workshops, educational programmes, consultations and participatory events, helping teams design safe and engaging environments where children can share ideas and co-create solutions.
It is particularly effective in settings where educators and facilitators aim to:
- introduce complex social topics to children in an accessible way
- support children in expressing their opinions and experiences
- encourage teamwork, dialogue and collaborative problem-solving
- create participatory spaces outside formal school environments
In practice, the methodology uses experience-based, age-appropriate activities, including group discussions, creative exercises, games, outdoor exploration and reflective practices.
Adults act primarily as facilitators and supporters, while children are encouraged to take initiative, propose ideas and participate in decision-making processes within the activities.
The methodology is implemented for example in the WellBee – You and Your Future Summer Camp, a small-group learning environment in nature where children explore topics such as children’s rights, climate change, artificial intelligence, fake news and digital literacy through interactive activities or at the Annual Conference of the Hungarian Child Rights Coalition organized for the International Children’s Rights Day.
Focus on Inclusion
Inclusion is a core principle of the WellBee methodology. Programmes are designed to bring together children from different socio-economic, cultural and national backgrounds, creating opportunities for shared learning and mutual understanding.
Activities are adapted to the age, needs and abilities of participants, using creative, visual and experiential methods that support children with diverse learning styles.
Special attention is given to creating a safe, respectful and supportive environment where every child feels valued and heard. Facilitators prioritise:
- active listening
- co-creation
- voluntary participation
- respectful dialogue
- child-friendly communication
The programme also intentionally includes children from disadvantaged backgrounds and refugee communities. For example, since 2022 the programme has hosted Ukrainian refugee children, creating opportunities for them to connect with local children in a supportive, non-formal learning environment.
Through this approach, the methodology helps reduce social barriers and promotes inclusion, equality and intercultural understanding.
Contributors
Organizations and individuals who developed this methodology
Fanni Mátyók
The WellBee methodology was developed by Fanni Mátyók, a child rights and child participation expert and the founder of WellBee – You and Your Future Association, with contributions from Zsófia Nemes, an educational expert.
The program is implemented by a diverse team of young professionals and educators with expertise in areas such as education, special needs education, law and environmental protection. The methodology also encourages peer-to-peer learning, with former campers gradually taking on facilitator roles and supporting younger participants.
WellBee collaborates with partner organizations working in the fields of mental health and education, and supports children in presenting their perspectives at national and international events.
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Voices from those who have experienced this methodology
