Toolbox — For Training and Youth Work
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Simulation Exercise, Group Building Activity
A practice-based training booklet for youth workers using embodied and non-formal methods such as Non-Violent Communication, Contact Improvisation, Playfight and somatic practices to support well-being, inclusion and participation in youth work.
The aims of the tool are to:
- Support youth workers in integrating embodied and non-formal learning approaches into their practice
- Strengthen emotional awareness, consent, communication and group cohesion among young people
- Promote inclusive, experiential and participatory youth work methods
- Translate body-based and somatic practices into safe, adaptable, non-therapeutic tools for youth work settings
- Encourage innovation and quality in non-formal education through embodied learning
This booklet is a practice-based learning tool developed during an 8-day international Erasmus+ training course for youth workers. It documents embodied and non-formal methods tested in practice, including Non-Violent Communication, Contact Improvisation, Dance and Dance Movement Therapy–inspired exercises, Playfight, somatic awareness practices, and nature-based learning activities.
The tool provides clear descriptions of exercises, facilitation guidelines, safety and consent considerations, and reflections on how each method can be applied in youth work contexts such as youth centres, community projects, schools, outdoor programmes and international youth exchanges. The methods are modular and adaptable, allowing youth workers to use them as standalone activities or integrate them into longer programmes.
Learning outcomes
After using this tool, youth workers can:
- Apply embodied and experiential learning methods in a safe and inclusive way
- Facilitate activities that strengthen emotional awareness, self-regulation and well-being
- Support communication, consent, boundary-setting and empathy in youth groups
- Foster group cohesion, trust, participation and non-verbal expression
- Adapt movement-based practices to diverse youth work settings and target groups
The tool serves as a transferable resource for youth workers seeking innovative, body-based approaches to non-formal education while maintaining a strong focus on consent, inclusion and reflection.
SALTO cannot be held responsible for the inappropriate use of these training tools. Always adapt training tools to your aims, context, target group and to your own skills! These tools have been used in a variety of formats and situations. Please notify SALTO should you know about the origin of or copyright on this tool.
http://toolbox.salto-youth.net/5346
This tool addresses
Social Inclusion, Peer education, Environment
It is recommended for use in:
Training and Networking
The tool was created by
Unknown.
(If you can claim authorship of this tool, please contact !)
The tool was published to the Toolbox by
Kristaps Ditke (on 18 December 2025)
and last modified
16 December 2025
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