Science teaches children in Ukraine to cope with stress
The ‘Science Kids’ project, run by INSCIENCE and UNICEF, helps children deal with the ongoing stress and trauma caused by war.
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Without the ability to go to school, Ukrainian children are not only denied an education. They also lack communication, a sense of community and support. On top of this, since the escalation of the war in Ukraine last February, about 1.5 million children have suffered psychological trauma that may have long-term consequences.
Now, a new initiative from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the INSCIENCE project aims to provide children with a space for socialization and give them the skills to manage their fears and anxiety.
‘Science Kids’ spaces in Odesa, Mykolaiv and Kharkiv offer children the chance to listen to lectures, conduct experiments and perform creative science tasks.
“I was very interested. I learned about different insects, where they live, and what they eat. And it turns out they are not harmful at all.”
During this meeting in Kharkiv, children had the chance to examine insects with a magnifying glass and even invent their own species.
“I have drawn a Tyrannus Argentinus. This is an insect that can survive in extremely difficult conditions.”
The opportunity to meet with their peers in a safe shelter and learn something new is a real joy for Kharkiv school children, many of whom have been unable to attend school due to the threat of shelling.
“I have many favorite classes, such as English and Ukrainian, maths, history, psychology, theatre and health basics. But now, we are studying remotely, which is frustrating. Offline learning was much better.”
After the lecture, it is time for an exercise class. This time, it is aimed at curbing the anxiety that children experience due to the regular shelling of Kharkiv.
“When I’m scared, I try to hug someone – a cat or my parents. Today, I have learned about a new method of dealing with anxiety – breathing exercises and tapping on the shoulders. And I shall use it.”
Yuliia Isliamova, the coordinator of the ‘Science Kids’ lecture in Kharkiv, says that this simple method can be used by both adults and children.
We showed the children a very simple way to deal with anxiety and stress that they can use anywhere and with anyone – for example, with their parents or friends,” explains Yuliia. “It’s called ‘square breathing’. It’s a technique where you inhale, hold your breath, exhale and hold your breath again for the same amount of time – usually four seconds, during which you can ‘trace’ one side of a square with your eyes.”
The war in Ukraine has had a devastating impact on children. Fear of death, loss of loved ones and changes in their everyday routine can all lead to serious psychological consequences that may affect children for the rest of their lives. As part of a joint project between INSCIENCE and UNICEF, work is already underway to combat stress and support mental health for 1,000 children in three Ukrainian cities.
