Child-friendly spaces in 6.4 magnitude earthquake that struck in Jajarkot western Nepal on 3rd November 2023
Children are coming to the child-friendly space in Nalgad Municipality, Bheri municipality, and Barekot in Jajarkot District. It was first set up by Aawaaj with support of UNICEF for the benefit of children affected by the 6.4 magnitude earthquake that struck western Nepal on 3 November. With activities like meditation, singing and drawing – all led by trained facilitators and counsellors – being in this space has helped children away from their “scary thoughts”, and represented a source of joy for crew of brothers, sisters and cousins. Children mentioned that “We feel happy here.” Child-friendly spaces provide sanctuaries for children in crisis, offering safety, play and healing through engaging activities, shielding them from trauma and fostering resilience. Besides recreational activities, these spaces also off access to psychosocial first aid for children, as well as serving as a platform to identify potential protection risks and provide immediate response, including referral to appropriate services. With support from UNICEF Aawaaj has set up 10 CFS in Jajarkot , about 500 children are benefitting from 10 seven child-friendly spaces that have so far been established in Jajarkot.
