Child-friendly spaces bring hope and joy to internally displaced Ukrainian children

During the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Ukrainian displaced children have the opportunity to join activities in child-friendly spaces (CFSs). With the support provided by dedicated volunteers, they can forget about the hardships for a moment and come back to their childhood.

UZHHOROD, Ukraine – When the team first enters the room, there is only one girl sitting and playing. After a few minutes, the room becomes very loud as more and more children join in. This unique room serves as a space for children navigating the challenges of online education and as a hub for socialization and emotional growth.

“This is a very useful space as the room works constantly. Unfortunately, children didn’t have any other option but to study online due to the circumstances,” shares Inna Polyakova, who works as a volunteer in the children’s room.

“Visiting this room, they have the opportunity to spend time together and study in person,” she adds.

Inna says this area is a special place for many internally displaced children. Uprooted from their homes and familiar surroundings, these children faced a hard adjustment to a new reality.

The woman recognized the importance of creating a space that not only catered to their educational needs but also supported their emotional well-being.

“When these children came to Uzhhorod for the first time, they were lost and scared. Even their parents didn’t know what to do. What can I say about them?” says Inna.

Each child who enters the Children's Room is unique, with their own set of challenges and requirements. Inna and her team understand the significance of adjusting their approach to each kid, bringing up a sense of belonging and trust.

All children are different, with their own issues. They need special care after fleeing their hometowns due to the crisis. They deserve a bright childhood with vivid memories.

“All children are different, with their own issues. They need special care as they’ve fled their hometowns due to the war in the country. They’ve been through a lot, unfortunately. But they deserve a bright childhood with vivid memories,” says Inna.

With significant support from World Vision and its implementing partner NGO “Girls” (Divchata), Inna and her team received furniture and various toys for children. This was made possible by contributions from Aktion Deutschland Hilft (ADH).

 “We enjoy working with “Girls”. They are very supportive. Our main problem was furniture,” explains Inna.

“Children didn’t have space to study, and “Girls” helped us with that. We are very grateful,” she goes on.

The children’s room has a huge impact on the young minds. According to parents, children gained not only knowledge and skills but also forged meaningful connections with their peers, enriching their overall social experience.

“My grandson, Yaroslav, 5, became more open and cheerful when he joined this CFS. He looks forward to a new day to go to his friends again,” shares Volodymyr, Yaroslav’s grandfather.

When the working hours of the room are over and the children have to go home, they start crying, asking their parents to stay 10 minutes longer.

“We really want this project to last longer. These children have come alive here, their parents have changed. Now it is very necessary.” believes Inna.

Thanks to the dedication of volunteers like Inna Polyakova and the unwavering support of organizations like NGO "Girls" and World Vision, this haven remains a beacon of hope and transformation for young lives.

Story by Oleksandra Shapkina, Communications Officer I Photos by Chris Lete and Eugene Combo, UCR Communications