Preschool children at Ösp focus on empathy and friendship
To mark World Children's Day on Nov. 20, 2025, all children, teachers and the Blær plush toy gathered in the hall at Ösp preschool. Blær represents Vinátta (Friendship), a bullying prevention project by Save The Children – Iceland, and children at Ösp have been working closely with this character over the past few weeks.
The project builds on principles from the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The Vinátta project with the Blær plush toy aligns with the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, especially the articles that address children's right to protection from violence and their right to social interaction and friendship. The project emphasizes creating a safe and caring environment where children can have their rights upheld. Over the past few days, the children have been making little "houses" for their Blær, which has been very fun.
"When the children gathered in the hall, each one brought their little Blær. Together we sang our friendship songs and talked about how we can invite others to join in their games and how we ask others if we can join them. At the end, we listened to Blær's favorite songs and sang along, with joy and togetherness taking center stage," says Halldóra Sigtryggsdóttir, preschool director.
Upholding children's rights is crucial
The day served as a reminder of the importance of respecting all children's rights and create an environment where friendship and empathy flourish. It is vital to listen to children, give them opportunities to have a voice and show respect for their opinions. "It's been especially wonderful to see how well the children have welcomed Blær and how interested they are in everything connected to this character."
Halldóra says that with Blær by their side, they will continue to foster friendship, respect and care because everyone has the right to feel included.
