When we first met Zlata, she was just over a year old. She didn’t respond when called by name, didn’t react to voices, and didn’t reach out to the other children around her.

Her parents were worried — could these be the early “red flags” of autism? But Khrystyna, a specialist from our Early Intervention Program, supported the family and advised them to undergo a medical examination.

It turned out that Zlata simply couldn’t hear. Because of adenoid inflammation, she had been living in complete silence. That’s why she seemed “withdrawn” and wasn’t developing like other children her age.

After receiving treatment, her hearing was restored. Together with our early intervention team — including our special education teacher for children with hearing impairments (the only specialist of her kind in the region) — and thanks to her parents’ daily efforts, Zlata began to say her first words, respond to her name, and follow simple instructions.

Now, just six months later, Zlata waves her little hand, says “meow” and “yum,” smiles, and blows kisses. She calls for her dad, hugs her little brother, and laughs so joyfully that her happiness can be heard from afar.

We watch her and celebrate every small victory.
The Early Intervention Program combines medical, psychological, social, and educational support. Most importantly, the entire family receives help — because this is an investment in a child’s healthy future.

Share Zlata’s story — it might inspire another family to take their first step toward change.

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We are deeply grateful to the Government of the Netherlands (represented by the Ambassador of the Netherlands) and to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands for supporting the creation of a space where children can grow and parents can receive the support they need.