WWO Ukraine
In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, WWO launched our Element of Play® programming to work with and assist children and families who have fled their war-torn homes to find safety. As the devastating war continues, we have expanded programs into 9 regions in nearly 30 learning spaces for displaced children and caregivers throughout the country.
WWO in Ukraine
The impact of trauma on the developing brains of children is especially evident during war time. WWO is working with Ukrainian libraries, preschools, refugee centers and more to provide our Element of Play® curriculum and program supply to create a structured play-based environment for children. Parents are given the opportunity to engage with their children through play, strengthening the parent-child relationship, increasing opportunities for laughter and joy, and decreasing feelings of isolation and fear.
Our trauma-informed spaces provide structure, routine and safety for a child who may otherwise be experiencing overwhelmingly chaotic and stressful situations. Our programs are meant to provide a safe and structured play space for children and their caregivers to find a moment to breathe, connect and laugh. Our Element of Play® program has fit seamlessly into this difficult environment.
Ukrainian children are experiencing the traumas of war compounded by an economic crisis. While 47.3% of Ukrainian children lived in poverty in 2019, that number is rapidly increasing after Russia’s 2022 invasion and the sustained war.
Play in the time of war.
Could you imagine being in the middle of a war, stripped of all of your comfort, your stability and all of the things that brought you joy? Hear how important play is to the children who are trying to find a sliver of normal in a time of war.
For more information about Ukraine and the families we impact take a look at our most recent Impact Report.
Element of Play® in Ukraine
Play also builds a child’s resilience by allowing them to regain a sense of control, becoming the hero or solving problems in play that they may be experiencing in their daily lives. Rhythm, dance, movement, and storytelling are calming activities that support a child’s sense of balance and connectedness - within themselves and in social interactions with others. By training local staff to effectively use play-based methodologies and curriculum in their work with children, WWO is significantly and positively supporting the mental health and wellbeing of Ukrainian children and their families living through this war.
Make a donation.
Our innovative programming in Ukraine helps reduce the amount of stress that these displaced children are experiencing. Your gift will help children and families build resilience and experience joy while they overcome trauma.
Partnerships
We have many partnerships across Ukraine that help us deliver our programs. Click here for a full list of our collaborative partnerships.