On January 26, 2026, a training session was held at Oleksandr Dovzhenko
Hlukhiv National Pedagogical University within the framework of the international project “BONDS – Building Resilient Skills for the Prevention and Management of Delinquent Behaviour in Schools.” The training aimed to support teachers’ internal resources under conditions of prolonged stress caused by contemporary challenges. The event focused on the practical application of art therapy as a tool for psychological recovery, as well as on preparing educators to work with primary school pupils in the context of preventing delinquent behaviour that may arise from psychological maladaptation and the loss of vital life supports. The training was conducted by teacher-artist Soborova Olha Mykhailivna, a graduate of the university with a degree in Primary Education, who currently works at Hlukhiv Secondary School No. 2 in the Sumy region. She is a teacher who embodies art as a powerful means of emotional recovery and inner balance. Her experience of working with both children and adults demonstrates a deep understanding of the psychological mechanisms of self-expression and support in times of instability, which is extremely valuable for educators who engage daily with diverse pupils and parents. In a warm and supportive atmosphere, participants immersed themselves in a creative process that combined psychological support with the symbolic meaning of artistic creation. The main task was to create a hanging motanka doll in the form of a yellow-and-blue angel is a symbol of support, warmth, hope, and light, which each teacher crafted by hand. This talisman represents an image of inner resilience that teachers can “carry” with them in their everyday professional activities. Within the concept of the training, the yellow-and-blue angel symbolized different levels of support: the inner strength of each educator, the ability to convey warmth and care to pupils, and gratitude to those who protect society from the horrors of war. During the process of creating the motanka dolls, participants shared their emotions, experiences, and sources of inspiration, which contributed to the formation of deeper connections among them. This process proved to be a powerful psycho-emotional resource. Participants felt that they were not alone in their concerns and that they could share a part of their inner world through artistic expression. The analysis of the training demonstrated that simple artistic practices can serve as effective tools for preventing delinquent behaviour in children: as preventive techniques, as means of developing emotional sensitivity, self-expression, empathy, and the ability to respond appropriately to internal conflicts. Trainer Olha Mykhailivna emphasized that art therapy helps both pupils and teachers recognize and process their emotions, which is a crucial prerequisite for creating a safe, supportive educational environment in a school that supports and inspires. Each participant left the training with a symbolic reminder  –  a yellow-and-blue angel – a talisman emphasizing the importance of warmth, humanity, and light that every educator should carry within.

BONDS is about connections, support, and shared responsibility for the well-being of both children and teachers.