Supporting the Wellbeing of Children from Ukraine: Transitions into Early Learning and Care Settings

Abstract

Attending Early Learning and Care (ELC) is an important symbol of recovery and resilience for children and parents coming from Ukraine. As settings in Ireland welcome children and families, it is important to recognise the key role that a supportive transition plays in children’s wellbeing. While attendance at an ELC service is an important step towards a return to normalcy for families, it need to be carefully planned. The transition into an ELC setting can be stressful for all children and their parents, but it may be particularly difficult for families coming from Ukraine who have experienced trauma. It is likely you already have policies and practices in place in your setting to ensure that all children are supported in a sensitive way to settle in as smoothly as possible. These will guide you as you play a key role in helping children and families to feel welcome and connected, and in supporting children who have experienced trauma to feel safe, calm and secure. This resource highlights some of the key things to consider as you support children and families coming from Ukraine to settle into your setting.