Building a Place for Play in Ukraine

From those who have lost loved ones to the hundreds of thousands who’ve fled constant violence to the innocent children who’ve witnessed it all – every Ukrainian has endured the brunt of this war.

Adjusting to the new harsh reality of destabilization and the unknown is extremely difficult for children as this war has affected them in significant and often unseen small ways. Children in wartime often experience a sharp decline in overall mental well-being, with many seeing a dramatic increase in depression and anxiety.

CORE understands and recognizes the importance of socialization and play. As a global humanitarian organization, we observe the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that kids deserve safety.

Even during armed conflict, they shall be protected and remain untargeted. Ultimately, kids should still get to be kids. No matter the horrid circumstances, they should have the chance to have fun, play with others, and forget about the world.

Play can combat the war’s adverse mental health effects on children. It allows them to adapt to their new environment and overcome the stress of the situations they and all Ukrainian children encounter. Play also helps kids form community-building connections with other children, allowing them to process trauma and develop a sense of resilience.