As the crisis in Ukraine continues, Latvia has become a home for many Ukrainian families over the past few years. To strengthen the integration of Ukrainian civilian children in Latvia, the Latvian Red Cross has been continuously developing new projects and initiatives. These efforts not only provide a safe and welcoming environment but also offer children a creative and active way to learn about essential aspects of our country—its culture, traditions, education system, nature, history, and society.
This summer, the LatRC organized Creative Integration Days in Riga, Bauska, Ventspils, Salacgriva and Daugavpils, more than 140 children participated. These events provided children with the opportunity to meet one another, learn together, express themselves creatively, play, visit museums, learn the Latvian language, and engage in many other activities.
Bilingual Approach: A Bridge to Trust and Openness
The creative integration days involved knowledgeable and caring teachers fluent in both Latvian and Ukrainian. This was particularly important for fostering the children’s openness and trust, as hearing their native language made them feel more comfortable. At the same time, the presence of the Latvian language helped them to hear and better understand the language of their new home. This innovative approach ensured that children could learn Latvian in the most comfortable way while maintaining a strong connection to the Ukrainian language.
The activities carried out by the LatRC to support Ukrainian civilians lay the foundation for a brighter everyday life for these children. Every smile and word of gratitude from the children and their parents inspires the LatRC to continue and expand its support programs.
The creative integration camps were organized thanks to the financial contribution of the Swiss Confederation (Swiss Contribution) through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. This funding aims to reduce social and economic disparities within the European Union.
Thank you Nestle Baltics for supporting LatRC regular activities!
Together, we can help!
Photos published with the permission of the children’s parents.