Art has incredible healing and restorative power. In our daily center in Kharkiv, we create a safe space where children who have survived the horrors of war can immerse themselves in the world of creativity and find solace. Recently, we held a papier-mâché and decoupage master class, which became a therapy for children traumatized by the war.

The children learned how to make plates using the papier-mâché technique. It’s making products from a special paper pulp that can change shape easily. When the paper products were ready, children decorated them using the decoupage technique — the decoration of various items based on the attachment of a drawing, picture, or ornament to the object and subsequent coating.

During the creative process, the children felt like real artists. However, they were particularly impressed that it can all be made with simple paper, glue, and water. The little ones were happy when the handmade products were ready, so they joyfully showed their work to their elders.
Thanks to creative tasks, children can abstract from negative memories, relax, and feel the joy of life again. And most importantly, the creative process helps children heal the trauma of war and thus restores their faith and confidence in their future.