Pepco and the Zaczytani.org Foundation show children that conflict doesn't have to divide – the fairy tale "Friendship, Crayons, and Worms" is a story that helps the youngest learn how to deal with difficult emotions.

Why is this so important? As experts emphasize, conflicts are a natural part of relationships – including those of children. With the right support, the youngest can learn to recognize emotions and talk about their needs instead of suppressing them.

“Conflict is not a failure, but the beginning of a conversation. In this fairy tale, we show that something good can emerge from a difficult situation – greater attentiveness, the courage to speak about needs, and a new quality of friendship,” says Agnieszka Machnicka, President of the Zaczytani.org Foundation.

An emotional premiere

During the gala premiere of the book, which took place on August 6 in Warsaw, children listened to the fairy tale, read by, among others, the project's ambassador, Małgorzata Socha. The youngest also participated in a fairy tale therapy animation, during which they practiced talking about their emotions.

We recommend the material from the premiere prepared by Onet:

Cooperation for the good of the youngest

The educational activities are part of Pepco's long-term mission, which supports projects that improve children's well-being and safety.

“At Pepco, we have been involved for years in initiatives that develop children's talents and imagination, support social skills, and improve the well-being and safety of the youngest. The "Friendship, Crayons, and Worms" project is particularly close to us because it teaches children to openly talk about emotions, listen to each other, and seek understanding. We believe that such actions have immense value because they help the youngest build relationships based on mutual understanding and respect. The fairy tale has another extraordinary value for us because its audio version is read by volunteers – our employees,” says Kasia Wilczewska, Head of Corporate Communication Pepco.

A wise fairy tale for difficult times

The author of the story is Boguś Janiszewski. The fairy tale's protagonist, a weasel named Łucja, returns to school after the holidays and discovers that her best friend is spending time with someone else. Hurt feelings lead to an outburst of anger and escape, but a conversation with her teacher helps her understand that behind the anger lies the need to be important and noticed.

The publication is a practical set of tools that can help children build emotional resilience, and parents – better understand the world of children's experiences.

Free materials to download

The fairy tale "Friendship, Crayons, and Worms," an expert article, and educational materials are available for free on the Pepco website: www.pepco.pl/kolekcje/bajka-psychoedukacyjna/ and on the Zaczytani.org Foundation website. QR codes for downloading materials can also be found in the chain's stores until the end of August.