I realised something wasn’t right
Interview with mother Kateryna Kuntsiu
During the war, Kateryna noticed that her young son was developing differently. ‘I realised something was wrong: he was not talking - something just felt off. As a first-time mother, I kept hoping he would grow out of it.’ Eventually, he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Following a referral, they found their way to an Early Intervention Centre in Odesa.
Stress under sirens
Parenting is challenging under any circumstances. Even more so during a war, especially when your child is sensitive to change and overstimulation. ‘He doesn't understand why we suddenly have to go to shelters in the middle of the night,’ Kateryna explains. ‘And he picks up on my stress. It affects him deeply.’
Finding connection and support
Through psychological counselling, peer support groups, and art therapy, Kateryna learned to understand her son better. ‘The peer support group is fantastic. There are so few opportunities for parents like us. I’m really happy we have access to it. I learned to understand my child better and how to connect with him. He has become more independent, more social.’
A hopeful future
‘I hope more parents of children with special educational needs can access this kind of support,’ Kateryna says. ‘Our children just learn and see the world a bit differently—but they’re still kids, just like everyone else.’
Kateryna Kuntsiu is one of the many parents receiving support through the Early Intervention Centres in Ukraine. In collaboration with our partner, Healthy Society, the ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre has trained psychologists and social workers in trauma-informed care, art therapy, and facilitating peer support groups. This work is made possible thanks to the support of Giro555 donors.
