On June 16, another stage of the “Children and War: Teaching Recovery Techniques” program training concluded in Kyiv, resulting in 18 participants receiving trainer certificates. The new specialists work in Kyiv, the Kyiv region, and Zaporizhzhia — areas that have been especially affected by the full-scale war.
The certificate awarding ceremony took place in an atmosphere of joy and mutual support. Key project team members — Iryna Sukhova, Olena Bozhor, and Olha Posternak — took part in the event, offering recognition and encouragement to each participant.
The “Children and War. Teaching Recovery Techniques” program is based on scientifically validated methods for working with childhood trauma and loss. Every newly certified trainer is a source of hope and strength for young Ukrainians who have experienced traumatic events and need a safe space for healing.
Participant Feedback from the “Children and War” Program: Real Stories of Impact and Growth
We also want to share feedback from the participants — voices that reflect the transformative power of the “Children and War: Teaching Recovery Techniques” program:
Anna Horbachenko: “What makes this training different from others?
There are so many training opportunities nowadays, but I’ve never encountered topics like these before! The exercises weren’t just things to listen to — we truly lived them, studied them, memorized them, and now we’re ready to teach them further.This was my first experience as a trainer.
We enrolled children into two groups in almost one day because this program is already known, and children wanted to join. I was proud to be the one who helped children recognize their trauma and learn how to manage their emotional state. All of them have trauma — the war.”
Vlad Korniienko: “Special thanks for the support throughout the entire project.”
Rehina Serdechna: “This was my first time acting as a trainer — I had previously declined such roles.
But after this training, I clearly see my professional growth. Participants in our group showed positive changes in post-program testing, and they shared their experiences, which is so valuable. The exercises were great — especially the drawing. Even for adults, expressing problems on paper is incredibly powerful!”
Olha Konovalenko: “I can clearly see people feeling better.
A huge thank you for techniques that seem simple, yet they’re effective and easy to understand.”
Olena Shapar: “By the time we reached the final sessions, we had created an incredible atmosphere of trust.
The children shared their most personal thoughts during our sessions.”
