Implemented by the War Childhood Museum
June 2023 – July 2024
The War Childhood Museum (WCM), with the support of a grant from the Peace of Mind Foundation (PoM), has significantly expanded its art therapy-based workshops for children and teenagers affected by war. These workshops, designed to foster resilience and emotional healing, have reached over 357 participants across various regions of Ukraine. Through engaging activities like drawing, ceramics, creative writing, and dance, children are given the opportunity to express their experiences and emotions in a safe, supportive environment. The integration of art therapy has not only allowed participants to explore their inner worlds but also provided a platform for them to share their stories with others.
One of the key successes of this initiative has been the creation of a sustainable community of children connected through their shared experiences. The workshops have empowered participants to stay in touch with each other and with the Museum, contributing to its growing archive of war-affected childhood stories. Several of these stories have already been showcased in exhibitions across Europe, including in Kyiv and at the Oslo Freedom Forum, underscoring the lasting impact of this work. The children involved have actively contributed to WCM’s collection, with many showing a newfound willingness to engage with researchers and share their personal narratives.
The workshops, held in collaboration with various local organizations, have also fostered new partnerships. Through PoM’s grant, WCM has strengthened its connections with the Save Ukraine organization and Ukrainian children’s writers, paving the way for future joint projects. These collaborations have enriched the scope of WCM’s work, enabling the organization to bring its healing activities to even more children. The workshops have not only benefited the participants but also contributed to the development of WCM’s organizational capacity, providing valuable insights into the needs of war-affected children and refining the museum’s approaches to trauma healing.
A highlight of these workshops has been the use of dance movement therapy, particularly for internally displaced children. Although initially met with some hesitation, especially due to cultural perceptions of dance in Ukraine, these workshops proved to be transformative. Participants, many of whom were initially withdrawn, showed significant behavioral changes by the end of the sessions, smiling and engaging with others in ways they had not before. One notable case involved a young boy who, after losing his father in the war, had been reluctant to talk about his grief. Following his participation in a dance workshop, he opened up and shared his story with WCM researchers, a breakthrough moment for both him and his family.
See how movement-based therapy approaches can help to release stress
During the workshop, children and their guardians learned the various stress-relief, grounding and empowerment techniques. The therapists used different tools and musical instruments to deepen the experience.
Even if anecdotal, the success of these workshops demonstrates the profound impact that art therapy can have on children affected by conflict. Through creative expression, participants are given tools to process their trauma, build resilience, and form supportive connections with others. As WCM continues to expand these programs, the partnership with Peace of Mind Foundation ensures that more children will have access to these essential healing experiences, helping them move forward with hope and strength.