The Competency Development Program (KEP) is a preventive small-group program offered by the “Kinder” school social work service for students in grades 2 through 4. The program focuses on specifically strengthening social and emotional competencies.

Within a small, supportive group, a safe environment is created where children can experiment, gain experience, and develop new coping strategies. The program content is tailored to the children’s age, the specific group dynamics, and their current needs.

Through playful, creative, and project-based activities, the program addresses topics such as feelings and emotional regulation, self-confidence and self-efficacy, friendship, cooperation, conflict resolution, dealing with criticism, communication, and appropriate ways of handling challenging situations. In the process, children learn, for example, to better recognize and express their own feelings and needs, to resolve conflicts constructively, to build relationships, and to see themselves as part of a group.

The focus areas vary depending on the age group and stage of development. While for younger children, for example, recognizing and naming feelings, social interaction, or making friends may take center stage, older children increasingly tackle more complex topics such as assertiveness, conflict resolution strategies, group dynamics, and dealing with different perspectives are addressed.

The KEP program deliberately builds on the children’s strengths and opportunities for growth. The goal is to foster social skills early on, support children in their personal development, and equip them with strategies they can use in their everyday school life and beyond.

The selection and support of children take place in close collaboration between school social workers and the school. Parents and guardians are also involved and kept informed about their child’s progress.