Play Hub in Kyiv: a space of safety and development for children affected by war
The war has forced millions of Ukrainians to leave their homes and start anew in unfamiliar communities. Among them are thousands of children, who are in particularly dire need of care and support. Today, almost 40% of internally displaced persons are children. That is why the creation of safe, friendly and multifunctional spaces is not only relevant, but also vital for their development and adaptation.
In response to these challenges Non-governmental organization "Labor and Health Social Initiatives" (LHSI) together with international partners — International Child Development Initiatives (ICDI, Netherlands) and Kyiv City Family Center "Rodynnyi Dim" — opened in the capital game center Play Hub*.
*The project in Ukraine is implemented by the NGO "Labor and Health Social Initiatives" with financial support from the Otto per Mille Foundation of the Waldensian Church of Italy.
This model is already working successfully in EU countries, helping families who find themselves in new circumstances to find resources for recovery and integration.
What is Play Hub?
Play Hub is an inclusive educational and play space for children aged 0 to 10 and their families. Here, children can play, learn, and interact with peers, while parents can receive psychological support and participate in the development of their children. Special attention is paid to children from vulnerable groups who grow up in difficult life circumstances.
Play Hub has been operating in Kyiv since summer 2023 with financial support Porticus Foundation, and since spring 2025, the initiative continues to be implemented thanks to a partnership with by the Italian Chiesa Valdese Foundation.
Work results
In 2024, Play Hub services were used by 1177 children from families in difficult circumstances, 82% of whom are preschoolers. Another important achievement was that 1168 parents were able to participate in activities with their children. This helps to restore trust in families, creates conditions for intergenerational learning and a deeper understanding of the child's needs.
Goal and strategy
Play Hub in Kyiv was created for:
- software psychosocial support children and their families;
- of inclusive play and educational activities;
- assistance integration of IDPs into the community;
- developing an environment where values equality, diversity and safety.
To do this, the LHSI team implements three key areas:
- Safe space — the child feels protected, has the opportunity to express emotions, learn and adapt.
- Service integration — cooperation with educational, medical and social institutions for comprehensive support of families.
- Equality and diversity — inclusion of various groups in the activities: internally displaced families, children from national minorities, Roma families and other vulnerable categories.
Activities and partnerships
- Training of teachers and psychologists according to European methods TOY for Inclusion.
- Adaptation and translation of ICDI methodological materials.
- International cooperation within the TOY for Inclusion network — study visits, exchange of experience, dissemination of successful practices.
Parents' voices
"I am glad that I can come here with my children. Play in a cozy, friendly and safe atmosphere and find out which games will be more interesting for them to play according to their age and needs. I am grateful to the educators of the Play Hub for supporting the development of my children.", — shares one of the mothers.