Child-Friendly Spaces foster stability for families amid conflict

Before the full-scale invasion, Viktoria’s family lived in Kharkiv. Mother Nadia, father Yevhen, and their daughter led a routine life: schooling, work, and walks along their favorite streets of their hometown. However, the war forced them to leave their home. Due to constant shelling in their neighborhood, the family relocated to Berestyna in search of safety.

Nadia admits that adapting to the new life was challenging. Vika, who had been actively socializing with peers and attending school before the war, suddenly found herself in forced isolation. Online learning couldn’t replace face-to-face interaction, and the war altered their usual way of life.

“It was hard for my daughter. She missed her friends, her hometown, and how things used to be. We realized she desperately needed communication, new acquaintances, and a sense of stability,” says Nadia.

That’s when they learned about the Child-Friendly Space. This place became a true support for them. Here, Vika found friends, developed herself, and integrated into the new environment.

“I saw her come alive after each visit. She began to open up, became more confident, and learned to cope better with stress. She especially enjoyed developmental activities with an English component—through play, she learned many new things and broadened her horizons,” shares the mother.

The space became a place for relaxation, rehabilitation, and a support point for the entire family. Since only the mother is working, financial difficulties became another challenge. At the center, they were helped to receive humanitarian aid and register for financial support during the winter period, which significantly eased their situation.

“We work not only with children but also with their families. Displaced persons face many challenges—loss of housing, financial problems, psychological difficulties. Our goal is to create a safe place where children can be children, receive emotional support, learn, play, and parents can find the necessary help and understanding,” comments Olena Khvatynets, regional coordinator of the NGO “Responsible Citizens.”

Today, Vika happily attends the space. She actively participates in classes, loves cinema therapy and art therapy, and finds inspiration in new activities.

“We are very grateful to have such a place. Here, we don’t feel alone, and Vika gets opportunities that help her develop and adapt to life in a new city,” adds Nadia.

In the Kharkiv region, there are currently seven Child-Friendly Spaces created within a UNICEF project with financial support from USAID. You can find the activity schedule at the link: https://t.me/friendlyprostir_children