From Trauma to Hope: Child-Friendly Spaces Aid in Healing
The war in Tigray had a devastating physical and psychological impact on the life of children. A report from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operation (DG ECHO), dated 15 January 2025, indicates that approximately 2.4 million school-aged children were denied the right to education for three academic years, with 88% of school infrastructures damaged. This situation has escalated child protection risks, exposing children to various forms of trauma and harm.
Lidiya, a bright 16-year-old with dreams of becoming a scientist, was among those deeply affected by the trauma. Once living a comfortable life in a Tigray Region of Gantafeshum district with her middle-income family, she was an 8th-grade student on a promising path.
The Pretoria Agreement ended three years of devastating war, and schools reopened, fulfilling Lidiya's long-held wish and frequent prayer. Yet, the lingering trauma made it nearly impossible for her to concentrate. The trauma affected her emotional, psychological and physical well-being. "I was physically present, but mentally absent," she recalls, her voice cracking with emotion. "Instead of lessons, I was haunted by the echoes of artillery, the fear, the trauma of displacement, the hunger we experience during the displacement, the caves we sheltered in to hide ourselves from the attack, and the gnawing pain of loss."
The psychological scars of the conflict had left Lidiya withdrawn and isolated. “I hated talking to anyone, even my closest friends,” she admits. "I used to prefer loneliness to company. Instead of connecting with others, I retreated into solitude or sleep," she explains with deep sadness.
The depression and stress Lidiya experienced, profoundly impacted her academic performance. "Before the war, I was a top-ranked student," she explains, her voice heavy with regret. "Afterwards, my grades plummeted. My parents and teachers were deeply concerned by my sudden decline."
Thousands of children share Lidiya's trauma in the area. They used to face psychosocial Issues, developmental delays and behavioural Problems. Child-friendly spaces provide a range of age-appropriate activities, from games and storytelling to structured play and resilience-building, allowing children to express their feelings, explore challenges, and gradually heal from trauma.
Lidiya's journey through the child-friendly space has been transformative, a beacon of hope in her life. Reflecting on her first experience, she shares, “When I joined the child-friendly space for the first time, I found myself drawing bullets, guns, tanks, and other weaponry. These images had consumed my thoughts. Gradually, however, I began to explore a wider range of subjects in my art, moving beyond the confines of violence to embrace more peaceful and imaginative themes.”
The atmosphere in the child-friendly space is vibrant and engaging. Lidiya describes it as a hub of creativity and interaction: “Some children share their musical talents, others showcase their dance skills, and many present captivating artworks that inspire participation. In this lively environment, I found solace; it allowed me to forget the worries and traumas that had once weighed heavily on my mind, affecting my educational performance and overall well-being.”
Today, Lidiya radiates health and confidence. Her transformation is evident not only in her physical state but also in her social interactions. “I never imagined I could escape the life I was living or the conditions that surrounded me. I feared that my future would only worsen. Now, I am healthy and engaged with everyone I meet. I attend classes with focus and actively participate in discussions, forming friendships along the way.”
Her academic performance has seen a remarkable turnaround as well. “Before joining the child-friendly space, I struggled to score above 50 percent in my studies. But now, everything has changed. My grades are improving, and I feel like I'm reclaiming my potential,” she says with a newfound sense of pride.
Lidiya's story is a testament to the power of supportive environments in nurturing resilience and fostering growth. Through art, interaction, and encouragement, she has not only healed but also blossomed into a confident young individual ready to embrace her future.
World Vision Ethiopia, with the European Union Civil Protection Humanitarian Aid Fund, has established four child-friendly spaces across the three war-affected districts in the Tigray Region; namely, Gantafeshum, Subha Saersie and Klte Awlalo to restore a sense of normality and continuity to children whose lives have been disrupted by war. It also provides socioemotional training to students to help them recover from trauma. Initially serving 400 children, these vital spaces now support 1,200, offering psychosocial support and recreational activities to heal them from the scars of war.
Child-friendly spaces offer more than just immediate relief; they represent a lasting commitment to transforming the lives and future prospects of children impacted by conflict. By prioritising their emotional well-being and providing safe environments for healing, we empower children like Lidiya and countless others in Tigray and beyond to build brighter futures.
By Aklilu Kassaye, Field Communication Manager, World Vision Ethiopia