After previous years of successful Shokkin Kamps, some of our members who had participated in previous editions decided that they missed the vibe of the camp so much that they wanted to organize it again by themselves. We listened, we guided them, and the 2024 edition of Shokkin Kamp was hosted in Sportland Kõrvemaa from the 15th to the 17th of July.
Shokkin Kamp, in short, is a youth event where young people come together in a non-formal learning environment with sessions on a specific topic, group building activities and socializing as the main objectives.
For 3 days we were focusing on digital detox and self-care tools, exploring life in the digital era without phones. During the camp participants engaged in six sessions organized by our team. These included team-building activities, hobby workshops like crafting, music creation, and dancing, and insightful discussions on digital wellness and meditation benefits.
Each day began with energizing games to foster teamwork and communication skills. Participants also took time for self-reflection and shared feedback sessions, enriching their overall experience.
The first day of the kamp started with an introductory session where we played various name games so that all participants could get to know each other, learn each other’s names, and feel more comfortable together.
Introduction to the Topic – How Smart Devices Affect Us
In the second session, participants discussed how they use their smart devices and the impact these devices have on them, including potential risks and how to avoid them. Everyone shared their experiences with social media usage and the dangers of overuse. Working in teams, participants contributed with their opinions and experiences. We discussed how to behave on social media and use critical thinking to navigate the digital world.
Hobby Workshops (Dancing, Handicrafts, and Music)
Next, the young people tried different workshops: handicrafts, where they made rings; music, where they created a song from scratch; and dancing, where they explored modern dance. These workshops provided various ways to spend time without smart devices.
Participants also formed groups and prepared short plays on topics chosen by the organizers: “life without smart devices”, “24 hours online”, “life 100 years ago without internet”, and “smartphone addiction”. Preparing these plays helped develop improvisation and teamwork skills, and reinforced the camp’s theme.
After a busy day, we took time to reflect on the day, share feedback, and do some inner reflection. We listened to music, played disc golf, and enjoyed board games.
Meditation and Its Effects on Our Brain
Participants were divided into teams to try different types of meditation. After meditating, they discussed how they felt and whether they would like to meditate daily and incorporate it into their routines. One organizer shared scientific facts about how meditation positively affects us on 3 levels: physiologic, clinical and intrapersonal.
Creating a Collage
In this session, participants tried their hand at creating collages. Many shared that this activity brought a sense of calm and helped them express their creativity. They sat together at a large table and crafted under the guidance of our organizer.
Afterward, we played active games from childhood, reminding everyone of the joy of running and playing outside with friends. We then reflected on the day, gave feedback to the organizers, and played more board games.
Participant Workshops
In this session, participants had the chance to lead their own workshops. They suggested that they could teach three new workshops: popping dance, drawing, and yoga. Participants led these sessions and shared their knowledge and experiences with others.
Reflection and Closing Remarks (Evaluation and Feedback):
We shared thoughts with participants and the organizational team about what we learned over the past two days and how we felt. We discussed our next steps after the camp and the emotions we were experiencing. Participants were also awarded certificates (ShokkinPasses). We said our goodbyes and returned to Tallinn.
This camp offered a wonderful opportunity for young people to disconnect from their digital lives and connect with each other, learning new skills and forming lasting friendships. It was a memorable experience that left everyone looking forward to future events.
“The “Shokkin Kamp” was a local project funded by Tallinna Haridusamet (@noortegija)