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Finding Comfort and Confidence in Crisis: Tatiana and Andrej's Story
In the heart of Poland, Tatiana, a dedicated teacher at one of the Adaptation Centers for Children and Youth, has witnessed the profound impact of the EAA's Ukraine Emergency Response education programme on her students and herself. The programme, designed to support refugee children from Ukraine by providing workshops in multicultural settings (encompassing both Ukrainian and Polish children), offers much more than academic learning. "Through this program, refugee children received the support they needed to cope with mental health care, socialization, and other elements that supported their health and well-being," Tatiana shares. For many of these children, the classes have become a sanctuary where they encounter kindness, make friends, and feel comfortable enough to share their feelings and experiences.
Tatiana highlights the program's unique aspects that have contributed to its success. "A huge plus is that the workshops are free and anyone can participate. The colourful educational materials and pair work have made the program a great opportunity for children to quickly adapt to a new country," she explains. The presence of a psychologist at the centre has been crucial for children with severe communication problems, helping to identify the causes and develop individual strategies for support.
Implementing the program and working with Positive Education Institute – a Polish NGO - has been a rewarding experience for Tatiana. "During the implementation, it was clear that the program was working. The children became more sociable, learned to work in a team, and be creative," she notes. The children not only built relationships with each other but also learned to respect other cultures and work together effectively in pairs and groups. The integration of social skills into playful activities made the learning process enjoyable and comfortable for the children.
One of Tatiana's students, nine-year-old Andrej, exemplifies the program's transformative power. Andrej came to Poland from Ukraine after the invasion in February 2022 and has since returned to Ukraine. Reflecting on his experience, Andrej says, "I'm very happy that I took part in the project. Thanks to the project, I became more confident and brave, and I learned Polish. Now, when something doesn't work out, I don't despair and try again."
Andrej fondly recalls the memorable aspects of the program. "I learned Polish, interviewed my partner, and then got him a passport. I really liked the cartoons we watched on Fridays with popcorn and the interesting exercises and tasks. We acted out theatrical scenes, participated in sporting events, and I drew emojis of my mood in my notebook every day," he shares. These activities not only enhanced his language skills but also boosted his confidence and resilience.
"I learned to use breathing techniques and to practice mindfulness, and I still use it. In mindfulness meditation, I need to feel my five senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell," he explains.
The strategies Andrej learned continue to influence his daily life. "I learned to use breathing techniques and to practice mindfulness, and I still use it. In mindfulness meditation, I need to feel my five senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell," he explains. The emphasis on mindfulness and emotional awareness has equipped Andrej with tools to manage stress and maintain a positive outlook.
Andrej particularly appreciated the supportive environment at the Adaptation Center of the Institute of Positive Education. "I really liked it, especially the colourful room with lots of toys, board games, and books. I've always enjoyed going to class. Our classes were never boring. I made new friends, shared stories, and had fun together," he recalls. The sense of community and the engaging activities made the centre a haven for Andrej during a tumultuous time in his life.
Tatiana and Andrej's stories highlight the profound impact of the EAA's Ukraine Emergency educational program. Through compassionate support and innovative educational approaches, the program has fostered resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging among refugee children, helping them navigate the challenges of displacement and build a brighter future.
"Humanity will not overcome the immense challenges we face unless we ensure that children get the quality education that equips them to play their part in the modern world." -- HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser
Surpassing
19 million
beneficiaries across all programmes of Education Above All Foundation
August 04, 2024
