TeamUp – exercise, fun, supporting children

TeamUp is a method of psychosocial support for children and young people that uses movement, play and group activities to enhance their wellbeing, sense of security and sense of agency. It helps children release tension, recognise and regulate their emotions more effectively, build relationships with their peers and develop their ability to work together.

TeamUp sessions take place regularly and follow a consistent, predictable structure, thereby creating a safe and structured environment for participants. During the sessions, children take part in carefully selected games, physical exercises and activities that develop body awareness. They do not need to talk about their difficult or traumatic experiences. Movement, gestures and playing together become a way of expressing emotions, connecting with others and discovering their own inner resources.

The method was developed by War Child Holland, Save the Children Netherlands and UNICEF Netherlands in response to the needs of children affected by war, forced migration and other crisis situations. Its creators sought a form of support that would be safe, adaptable to various settings and accessible even to children who do not share a common language.

That is why TeamUp relies heavily on communication through movement, gestures and demonstration, which makes it easier for multilingual groups to take part in the activities. The method can be used, amongst other places, in schools, libraries, after-school clubs, childcare centres and other safe spaces for children. TeamUp is currently being used in various countries and contexts, and is being developed and researched in terms of its impact on the psychosocial wellbeing of children and young people

KEY DATA:

  • Duration: 1 January 2026 – 31 December 2028, with planned continuation
  • Scope: nationwide
  • Licence: Save the Children Netherlands

HOW WE DEVELOP TEAMUP IN POLAND – KEY ACTIVITIES

Since January 2026, the Information Society Development Foundation (ISDF) has held a licence to implement and develop the TeamUp method in Poland. ISDF is responsible for developing and promoting TeamUp, whilst ensuring the quality of implementation and compliance with the method’s standards.

Our aim is to build a network of organisations, institutions and suitably trained individuals who will be able to use TeamUp to support children’s wellbeing in their communities.

As part of the development of the ISDF method, it may, amongst other things:

  • provide training for trainers and facilitators
  • prepare organisations and institutions to implement TeamUp
  • support schools, libraries and community organisations
  • develop a network of people working with the method
  • monitor the quality of the sessions delivered
  • support the exchange of experiences and good practice
  • develop partnerships to increase the programme’s accessibility.

Who is TeamUp for?

TeamUp can be delivered by institutions and organisations working with children and young people.
This method of psychosocial support helps children experiencing various life changes, difficulties or crisis situations. It strengthens the integration and wellbeing of the whole group, and helps to build relationships and regulate emotions. TeamUp does not view children solely through the lens of the difficulties they face – the method also focuses on their strengths.

Would you like to implement TeamUp?

Do you represent a school, library, community organisation or institution working with children? Would you like to find out more about training courses, the principles of implementing the method or opportunities for collaboration?

Please contact the our team.

More information: