KidsLikeUs supports displaced and vulnerable children by creating inclusive Superhero Sensory Gardens that promote healing, emotional well-being, and social integration through nature-based engagement.
NATURE-BASED HEALING FOR CHILDREN
Triggered by the mental health impacts of COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine, KidsLikeUs was created to address the emotional and psychological needs of vulnerable and displaced children. The project introduces “Superhero Sensory Gardens”—safe, inclusive environments that use nature to ease trauma, anxiety, and cultural dislocation. These gardens are designed to welcome all children, regardless of background, and support their recovery through sensory interaction and playful learning.
A MODULAR, REPLICABLE DESIGN MODEL
At the core of the initiative is the “Superhero Sensory Garden Matrix”, a modular toolkit that enables schools, NGOs, volunteers, and public institutions to design therapeutic garden spaces suited to their resources. Structured like a recipe book, it offers flexible guidance at basic, medium, and advanced levels based on available time, space, and budget. The model is co-created with users—especially children—ensuring the spaces are meaningful, adaptable, and easy for non-specialists to implement.
BUILDING RESILIENCE THROUGH COMMUNITY AND PLAY
Thousands of children, along with educators and caregivers, have already taken part in sensory activities and design workshops. Participants report improved mindfulness, reduced stress, and greater emotional presence. By fostering resilience, creativity, and connection, the gardens support long-term mental well-being and social inclusion. The project also equips communities with simple, powerful tools to respond to childhood trauma—seeding a Europe-wide movement of healing spaces rooted in the universal language of nature.
