At New Arrivals Support CIC, we know that early years support is key to helping refugee and migrant families feel grounded in a new environment. Our Maliatko Project—a Ukrainian-language club for children aged 0–5—is designed to offer exactly that: a welcoming space where Ukrainian families can grow, learn, and connect through play.

Every month at Maliatko, we create a nurturing environment for children to explore the world through arts, crafts, music, sensory play, and more. In January, our little learners were busy building skills and making memories.

✂️ Hands-On Learning Through Play

Our January sessions were packed with hands-on creative activities. The children made cheerful bunny decorations and hilarious little crabs, using these fun craft projects to express themselves while building their fine motor skills. With Lego bricks, they worked together to construct houses—developing early teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

The children also explored the world of animals, playing with dinosaur toys and learning fun facts about their favourite creatures.

🐠 Bringing Stories and Songs to Life

Art and storytelling were at the heart of this month’s sessions. We worked together on a giant “Underwater World” colouring sheet, where children added their own bright and imaginative touches. This collaborative art project helped encourage creativity and emotional expression.

Music made our time even more magical—we learned a new Ukrainian song about a bus, filling the space with rhythm and laughter. And thanks to our collaboration with The Heritage Bookshelf—the first Ukrainian community library in South East London—we read books in the Ukrainian language, supporting language retention, cultural identity, and literacy skills in a safe and inclusive setting.

🎳 Active Play and Joyful Moments

Of course, learning also means having fun! The kids loved our mini bowling session, which helped them stay active and develop balance, coordination, and confidence through physical play.

At New Arrivals Support CIC, we believe in creating trauma-informed, culturally sensitive spaces where children and families feel welcome, supported, and empowered. Maliatko is more than a playgroup—it’s a space for healing, growth, and belonging.

👶 About the Maliatko Project

🌍 For Ukrainian refugee families and new arrivals with children aged 0–5

🗣️ Sessions delivered in the Ukrainian language
🎨 Activities designed to support early childhood development, parental wellbeing, and community integration
🤝 Run by a dedicated team with lived experience and a passion for grassroots support