Dariia, who dances her dream

When Dariia enters the children’s space in Nizhyn, her eyes light up. At 12 years old, she loves to dance, sing, and cut out paper figures. “I have lots of friends here,” Dariia says with a smile that you want to hold onto during tough days.

For several months, she has been attending a local center that provides care for children with disabilities. It’s a space where childhood is protected, and every day is filled with meaning: communication, creativity, and movement. In the “Vira” dance group, Dariia doesn’t just participate—she blossoms. And so does her mother.

Iryna, Dariia’s mom, works at the center, leading classes for the children’s dance group. She knows firsthand how vital it is for families raising children with disabilities to have support and a sense of stability, having walked this path herself.

“Daria’s memory has improved, her handwriting is better, and she’s started drawing independently and cutting out shapes more neatly. These changes are noticeable—and they bring so much joy,” Iryna shares.

The dance group includes eight children. To rhythmic music, they practice coordination, flexibility, and focus. Dancing isn’t just about movement—it’s about development. About trusting your body. About joy.

“When my daughter started coming to the center, she became more confident, calmer, and more open. She’s made friends and socialized. And I’ve gained a bit of time for myself. We’re both happier” .

Dariia’s progress is noticed at school too. Her teacher’s assistant, Nataliia, says she’s increased focused and manages her schoolwork more easily.

“This place has become a resource for her. She recharges emotionally, learns new things, and it positively impacts everything, including her studies,” Nataliia notes.

The daycare service for people living with disabilities provides comprehensive care, including meeting basic needs such as self-care and nutrition, monitoring health, and offering rehabilitation services, daily activities, and psychological support. The center in Nizhyn offers a tailored day care service for children living with disabilities through the local social services space, reaffirming the community’s participation and local ownership of the programme supported by UNICEF’s “Minimum Package of Integrated Social Services for Families with Children” initiative in partnership with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through the KfW Development Bank. 

At the center, children don’t just engage in activities—they grow, develop essential skills for self-care and living in the community, discover themselves, and learn to connect with others – and, of course, have fun, as they make friends and enjoy shared activities. Meanwhile, parents can work, handle household tasks, or simply take a moment to breathe.

Dariia is one of many whose story shows that daycare, a supportive environment, and access to quality services can transform lives. Step by step. Through the rhythm of dance. Through the warmth of friendship.