ISSA Member Step by Step Moldova reflects on the changing needs of Ukrainian refugee children and complex challenges of implementing a psychosocial support initiative.
Since the first day of the war, the ISSA Network has mobilized to support young children and their families, both in Ukraine and in the countries receiving refugees. The war in Ukraine forced millions of children and families to flee their homes. Those who remain are facing great fear, uncertainty, and confusion. All are experiencing enormous trauma and we know from science that toxic stress has devastating effects on the development of young children. Young children are disproportionately affected during times of war. The instability and resulting wounds and trauma inflicted on children and families living in Ukraine, and those fleeing the violence, will be long lasting from generation to generation.
At ISSA, we continue our tireless work towards our vision of societies where families, communities and professionals work together to empower each child to reach their unique potential and embrace values of social justice and equity. Read more about ISSA’s 5 main streams of work.
On this page, you will find resources and materials for those working with children of Ukraine, as well as for parents and caregivers. Below, you will also find news about how the ISSA Network is responding to the needs arising due to the war.
How can you help?
Curated resources by topic
Guidance and psychosocial support documents for emergency settings
Materials for parents and caregivers
Materials for ECEC staff and centers
Links for continued schooling for the children of Ukraine
ISSA Resources
Building Bridges: Bridging the Gap - Supporting wellbeing, learning, development and integration of young refugee and migrant children
"Let's Play" Activity Cards - Play-based activities for healing and learning
ISSA Connects for Ukraine - Online Events
Responsive solutions in early childhood - Learning across borders [ Watch the recording ] [ Access materials ]
News
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 In Bulgaria, ISSA Member For Our Children Foundation coordinated the training of 103 early years professionals in psychological first aid. |
 Strong linkages and adaptive, flexible processes allow the ISSA Network to quickly organize in response to crises in Europe and Central Asia. |
 In partnership with Save the Children and Amazon, the International Step by Step Association will distribute 195,000 copies of three children’s story books in Ukrainian, from ISSA’s Reading Corner series. |