15-09-2026 | di COOPI

Jordan. Creating safe spaces for children to learn, connect, and grow in Karak

During the summer break (July-August 2026), COOPI and Al Faysalieh Community-Based Organization (CBO) brought together 100 children and adolescents in Karak, Jordan, for a Social Club designed to foster learning, creativity, and positive interaction. For many children, the summer holidays can mean fewer opportunities for structured social activities. In response, this initiative provided a safe, supportive space for young people to play, express themselves, and meaningfully connect with their peers.

The Social Club was implemented under COOPI – Cooperazione Internazionale’s “CAFOO – Integrated Community Social Protection Approach to Support the Most Vulnerable Groups among Refugees and Host Communities” project, funded by Italy through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). This activity contributes to COOPI’s community-based protection approach, combining individualized support with programs that strengthen children’s well-being, participation, and social skills.

Building the Social Club together

Al Faysalieh CBO played an active role in shaping the initiative from the very beginning. Building on their extensive experience with local youth, the organization collaborated with COOPI to review and refine the curriculum. Together, they developed a framework of eight tailored sessions for three distinct age groups: 6–9, 10–13, and 14–17 years old. By adapting existing resources to the local context, the partners ensured the Social Club was deeply relevant to the children and families it served.

Learning through play, interaction, and teamwork

Across all age groups, the emphasis was placed on "learning by doing" through games, group work, and practical activities:

·       Ages 6–9: Sessions adapted from COOPI’s Youth Club manual used play-based learning to explore children's rights, safety, feelings, bullying prevention, and safe internet use.

·       Ages 10–13: Drawing on War Child's I DEAL (I Develop and Learn) open-source material, activities focused on communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and building healthy relationships with peers and adults.

·       Ages 14–17: Guided by the Youth Club manual, older adolescents tackled topics such as leadership, community engagement, conflict resolution, gender equality, and the prevention of early marriage.

A safe space to speak and be heard

To ensure adolescents felt comfortable discussing sensitive issues like relationships and gender equality, sessions for the 14–17 age group were organized separately for male and female participants. Agreed upon with Al Faysalieh CBO, this culturally sensitive approach provided a safe environment where youth could express their views freely and openly.

Connecting activities with individual support

The Social Club also reinforced COOPI’s broader protection and case management work in Karak. Many participants were referred through the project’s case management system, ensuring that community activities directly complemented their individual care plans. For children facing vulnerabilities, access to these positive social spaces adds a crucial layer of support, strengthening protective factors like confidence and communication.

Ultimately, the Social Club represents more than just a summer activity. By working closely with local partners, COOPI is creating vital opportunities for children in Karak to develop their skills, build positive relationships, and strengthen their sense of belonging, because every child deserves a safe space to grow.

----

COOPI has been operating in Jordan since 2016, focusing at community level on child protection initiatives and the creation of safe spaces for children and families.