Early Learning for Vulnerable Children in Ukraine

For many displaced families in Odesa, finding a safe and nurturing place for their little ones is a real challenge—public kindergartens are overcrowded or unavailable, and parents are often overwhelmed. That’s why our two Early Development and Creativity Centres have become a lifeline for families in need.

In 2025, 74 children of early and preschool age found care, learning, and joy in our centres. While their parents dealt with the pressures of displacement and daily survival, their children spent their days in a warm, welcoming space where they could just be kids—play, learn, laugh, and feel safe.

Our centres focus on the whole child. They don’t just come here to pass time—we offer healthy, home-style meals every day, with fresh fruits, dairy, meats, and yoghurts all year round. They take part in games, creative activities, and hands-on workshops that help them grow and thrive.

We’ve created a real Montessori-inspired environment, especially tailored for children who’ve experienced the stress of war and displacement. Here, they can calm their fears, learn to trust again, and reconnect with joy.

Every day, our amazing team runs activities like:

• Sensory play and neuro-gymnastics – obstacle courses, soft mats, sand therapy… all kinds of fun ways to help children develop coordination, balance, and confidence in their bodies.

• Creative workshops – where kids make toys, decorations, and colorful art pieces. They use different tools and materials, turning their ideas into real things. It’s not just fun—it builds their imagination and self-esteem.

• Pottery classes – a favorite for many! In our cozy little studio, kids get to shape clay with their hands, explore textures, and proudly bring their creations home.

And it’s not just the kids who benefit. We support their families too—with food packages, hygiene supplies, and access to legal, psychological, and educational support. Parents often take part in activities and feel empowered by being involved in their children’s progress.

Success story

One year ago, a mother with two young children turned to our Foundation for help. After the start of the full-scale invasion, their lives had been turned upside down—filled with fear, uncertainty, and constant movement. Fleeing Kherson, the family first found temporary refuge in Romania, then eventually relocated to Odesa in search of safety and stability.

When Bohdan and Sofiyka first came to our Children’s Development Center, their emotional state reflected the deep stress they had endured. Both children clung tightly to their mother, were extremely sensitive to noise, and showed no interest in games or social interaction. Their sleep and appetite were disrupted, and they trusted no one but their mother.

Our team recognized the urgency of providing a safe, calm, and supportive environment. We began with short sessions—just an hour or two—with their mother present. Gradually, the children started watching other kids, then cautiously joined in play. Within two weeks, they began building trust in the staff, and their mother was able to leave them for several hours—a major milestone in their recovery.

Progress in group activities came steadily, but interaction with new teachers (especially in extracurricular classes) was much more difficult. Bohdan and Sofiyka were initially wary of every unfamiliar face and resistant to structured learning activities.

With patience, consistency, and the gentle support of our psychologists and educators, the children slowly began to open up. Over time, they not only gained confidence—they discovered joy. Bohdan showed a clear interest in drawing and singing, while Sofiyka responded well to sensory play and hands-on activities.

After just three months, the transformation was clear. Bohdan and Sofiyka began drawing at home, talking about what they learned during the day, and looking forward to coming to the center each morning. They reconnected with the simple joys of childhood—play, curiosity, and friendship—despite the backdrop of war.

Their story is one of many, but it reminds us why we continue this work: because every child deserves a safe space to grow, heal, and dream again.