CES Waldorf’s offerings in Bogotá include a kindergarten, school support programs, initiatives to help students complete their education, and social and health services. The organization fills a critical gap, as many displaced families lack official documents and thus have very limited access to education and healthcare. Survivors of violence and abuse often do not receive sufficient counselling, protection, or legal support.

In addition, poverty, hunger, and social and institutional neglect dominate daily life for these families, with profound consequences for children and adolescents. High levels of hopelessness increase the risk of school dropout, drug use, or recruitment by criminal groups. To address these challenges, our colleagues implemented complementary artistic and educational activities based on Emergency Pedagogy. These created safe spaces where children and adolescents could experience stability, mutual acceptance, and constructive conflict resolution. Families were also individually supported, receiving guidance and – when necessary – access to medical and legal assistance.

The impact of the project has been significant: around 150 children and adolescents between six and 18 years participated regularly in emergency and trauma pedagogy workshops. Various artistic activities strengthened their problem-solving skills, social competencies, and self-confidence. Over the course of the project, participants improved their communication skills, showed less aggressive behaviour, and were able to build healthier relationships. The skills they acquired also reduced the risk of involvement in crime or substance abuse, while increasing independence and educational opportunities. Ninety-eight percent of participants remained in school and successfully completed the academic year.
"The project enabled meaningful progress in multiple areas: stone carving, woodworking, symphonic music, musical composition, as well as the production of lamps and furniture. The workshops were well attended and fostered joy, purpose, and a strong sense of achievement," summarizes María Antonia Zárate Camargo, Director of CES Waldorf.

Parental engagement also showed important advances during this period. While training had been offered previously, many more parents participated during the project, addressing topics such as child development, addiction prevention, and sexual education. CES Waldorf social workers supported parents with legal matters and facilitated access to healthcare. Our emergency pedagogy colleagues also helped families recognize and begin to address trauma, supported by volunteer psychologists and the public health system. Demand for additional parent and family workshops remains high, highlighting both the sustained need and the positive impact of this approach.

The project clearly demonstrates how Emergency Pedagogy can open new opportunities for children, strengthen families, and contribute to the long-term stabilization of environments affected by violence and poverty.

Larissa Küllmar