Tu i Tamo

The application named “TU&TAMO” is the result of public health projects aimed at preventing behavioural addictions related to the misuse of modern technology in family and school environments, as well as other forms of risky behaviour that arise as a consequence. Such behaviours often lead to a disregard for family, classroom, and school rules, and may become disruptive not only for the individual within the educational process, but also for the entire class group.

Increased use of digital media and exposure to inappropriate content reduces the need for interpersonal relationships, which consequently leads to a decline in social skills that, as we know, can only be developed through interaction with other people. The family and the environment in which a child lives and/or spends time play the most important role during the child’s development and can help shape and support the adoption of socially acceptable ways of expressing emotions and behaviour.

The project activities are led by the Mental Health Service of the Teaching Institute for Public Health of Split-Dalmatia County. The development and implementation of the application are carried out in cooperation with stakeholders, partners, and collaborators from the education and health sectors, with the support of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Croatia and Split-Dalmatia County.

The application is also a digital tool for emotional literacy, consisting of three functional components: Stories, Animations (Video), and Games. These contents were developed through project activities designed and implemented by the end users – children and young people – with the support of mentors and other professionals. The content includes narrative stories thematically connected to the adventures and misadventures of “Mr Internet”, as well as age-appropriate animated films and games, with an important message also intended for adults. It also serves as a tool that enables adults to better understand a child’s inner world.

The application was not created with the intention of causing discomfort or moralising, but rather to entertain and reach children’s hearts with the help of two main characters – the girl Tu and the boy Tamo. Along this journey of stories and games, which always find their way, adults also play an important role.

The application was developed in collaboration with Marin Zglav, who was responsible for its development and implementation.