A space for play and relaxation: an interactive floor for children in a shelter

1. How it began

Children in Mala Rohan face constant tension from nearby hostilities and their experience of occupation. They needed psychological support during frequent air raid alerts. Parents partnered with AMI to create a modern recovery space.

The group planned a projection system in a new community shelter to support development, play and safe interaction.

2. Results

An interactive floor system was purchased, delivered and installed in an existing psychological recovery space. It directly benefited 501 people. Children can take part in daily physical activity and games developing logical thinking.

Specialists gained a tool to reduce muscular tension and support children’s emotional stability.

3. Challenges and achievements

Delayed state funding for shelter construction meant the planned room was not ready. The initiative group found an alternative: a completed centre on Kultury Square. Moving the equipment avoided downtime and enabled activities to begin immediately.

Partners learned to coordinate technical details quickly while preparing documentation in parallel.

4. Community impact

Children became more active and found it easier to engage with peers. Teachers and psychologists gained a resource for supporting children affected by trauma. Families saw practical development and gained hope for recovery.

Parents felt relief as children’s anxiety decreased.

5. The project’s legacy

Mala Rohan gained a modern psychological support centre. Residents demonstrated their capacity to introduce technology in difficult conditions and gained experience in technical assessment and systematic planning.

Once the shelter is completed, the community will be able to expand use of the equipment.

6. Who makes change happen

Implemented through Community-Led Initiatives Support with funding from HEKS/EPER, coordinated with the International Charitable Foundation Alliance for Public Health.