Early children’s education in Ukraine under martial law: challenges and prospects

Abstract

The article examines the specific features of early childhood upbringing (ages 1-3) in
Ukraine under the conditions of martial law, which has been in effect since 2022. The
authors focus on the main challenges faced by parents or their substitutes, as well as
educators, including disrupted stability, forced internal displacement or migration
abroad, and limited access to educational, medical, and social services. In the context
of war, young children are in a critical period of psycho-emotional and sensory
development, which requires the provision of a stable routine, a safe environment, and
emotional support from adults. The article explores the unique characteristics of
emotional reactivity in young children during crises, as well as the impact of psycho
emotional stress on their development.
The article also provides a detailed analysis of the current Ukrainian legislation in the
field of preschool education, particularly the Law of Ukraine «On Preschool Education»
and the Basic Component of Preschool Education. These documents define the legal
and value-based foundations for raising young children, outlining their fundamental
needs and developmental priorities. The authors emphasize that pedagogical support
for children and families during wartime must be systematic, comprehensive, and
based on the integration of innovative methods that promote the creation of a safe
space and the child’s socialization.
The article substantiates the necessity of implementing pedagogical patronage as a
key form of support for families in crisis and outlines prospects for improving the
educational process under martial law conditions. Special attention is given to the
importance of interagency cooperation, educational outreach with parents,
maintaining stable daily routines, and fostering children’s emotional resilience. The
research findings provide a foundation for further scientific exploration in early
childhood education, crisis pedagogy, and the development of adaptive educational
practices aimed at protecting and nurturing the youngest generation in complex socio
political circumstances.