Early Learning for Vulnerable Children in Ukraine

Many years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori began to suspect that traumatic experiences in childhood could damage the structure and physiology of the developing brain, causing serious cognitive, emotional and social dysfunction in children. She devoted her life to the creation of "prepared environments" designed to heal children of the destructive effects of adverse childhood experiences. Trauma disorganises the brain, but the Montessori method can help to re-organise it.

So now we have created"authentic" Montessori environments in our children centersthat have the capacity to heal children suffering from the insidious effects of trauma caused by war in Ukraine.

We are happy to inform you that all centers for preschoolers are now fully operational in the Foundation.

The situation in Odesa city is relatively safer this month than it was before, and we hope that it will be even safer in the future.

Our centers have been replenished with new pupils - children from the families of internally displaced persons from other regions of Ukraine who came to our city.

It is very important that these children feel comfortable, calm in a new environment, able to overcome fears and anxiety, able to feel happiness again after prolonged stress and tension. Our other task is to successfully integrate children into a new community.

Therefore, we pay a lot of attention to the psychosocial support of children. During classes, children express their emotions and feelings through art, handmade practice, play, positive communication with peers, tutors and parents. In addition, children learn English and improve their speech with a speech therapist.

We also constantly work with their parents. The tutors of the centers conduct a Family Day when parents and children engage in creativity and play. Group and individual sessions with a psychologist also help improve family relationships and integration.

The work of the centers is very important, because very few municipal kindergartens are working now. We appreciate your support of our centers in this difficult time for everyone!