We offer self-assertion courses for boys* who experience exclusion or bullying.
The courses take place on two days during the holidays, each lasting four hours from 9:30 to 13:30.
Through exercises, role-playing, discussions and lots of fun, we will work together to find new ways to protect ourselves.
- Participation in the courses is voluntary.
- The courses have a maximum of 10 boys participating.
- The course is aimed at boys aged 9-11 and 11-14.
The courses are led by two staff members from the Bremen Boys' Office. We make sure that all boys* feel comfortable in the course and are treated with respect.
The courses take place in a sports hall in the city center. No athletic skills or prior knowledge are required.
Contents
The course is aimed at boys* who are affected by stressful situations at school and during leisure time (exclusion, bullying, blackmail, "ripping off", etc.).
The boys* learn about their own strengths and abilities in a safe environment. This happens through imaginative cooperative exercises, roughhousing and play games, and discussions about personal experiences. The boys* are taught tips on how to get help and defensive escape techniques. Through exercises and role-playing, the boys* learn practical examples of how they can better protect themselves.
Topics such as being a boy, personal boundaries, powerlessness, and self-assertion strategies are incorporated. The personal experiences and individual questions of the boys are the focus of the self-assertion course.
In a trusting atmosphere, the boys can experience solidarity among themselves and realize that they are not alone with their experiences and needs. The participants learn together and from each other. Working in a group can strengthen the self-confidence of each individual boy.
Goals
- To instill self-esteem means supporting boys* in becoming aware of their own strengths and abilities and using them wisely, but also accepting weakness.
- Expanding action competence means making the boys* aware of the different behavioral options they have in difficult situations, and which offer them the greatest possible protection
- Sharpening self-awareness means supporting boys* in expanding their known range of feelings and behaviors. This includes the ability to perceive and respect their own boundaries and those of others, as well as to realistically assess themselves.
- Relieving the pressure of rigid ideals of masculinity means recognizing that there are many ways to be a boy*. Participants are supported in identifying where their preconceived notions of masculinity often hinder them in conflict situations.
Organizational matters
Each course has a maximum capacity of 10 boys*. We usually conduct a preliminary interview to jointly determine whether this course is the right fit for the boy*.
You will receive written confirmation of your registration and directions to the venue in Bremen approximately two weeks before the course begins. Please do not transfer the course fees until you have received this confirmation.
Boys* need comfortable long clothing and clean indoor athletic shoes with light-colored soles for the course. Please pay attention to the age recommendations for the courses, for your son's benefit. The courses start promptly at the premises of the Vorwärts eV gymnastics club, Violenstr. 27, right in the heart of Bremen. The courses are led by experienced instructors specializing in boys' activities.
Cost
The course fee is 30 euros. Reimbursement of costs via the Bremen Pass can be applied for before the course begins.
Dates 2026
Course 1 [9-11 years]
Mon. 02.02. and Tue. 03.02. (Report card break)
Course 2 [11-14 years]
Mon. 23.03. and Tue. 24.03. (Easter holidays)
Course 3 [9-11 years]
Thu. 02.07. and Fri. 03.07. (Summer holidays)
Course 4 [11-14 years]
Mon. 12.10. and Tue. 13.10. (Autumn break)
*) Boys* are very diverse, and by no means do all people define themselves as male or female. We use the asterisk* after boys* and men* to reflect this diversity.
Venue:
Turnverein Vorwärts eV
Registration information:
Registration required
Cost:
€30 course fee
