Beyond Play: Exploring the Benefits of Play Hubs for Ukrainian Refugee Families in Slovakia

Abstract

Non-formal ECEC, specifically Play Hubs, have the potential to play a pivotal role in addressing service gaps for refugee families. The responsive and flexible nature of Play Hubs meets the immediate and evolving needs of Ukrainian refugees in Slovakia, providing safety, socialisation, education and recreation for children while offering rest for parents. This fosters trust- a fundamental ingredient for social ties- which refugees may otherwise be cautious ascribing. The Hubs promote social and emotional through the development of bonding, bridging, and linking ties. Ukrainian refugees can maintain connected to their home culture and increase comfort in their host culture. By enabling parents to provide normalcy for their children, Play Hubs can aid the re-settlement experience and integration of refugees in Slovakia.