The Academy of Care and Osvitoria have presented the sixth interactive “Care Lesson” for children of preschool and primary school age, focusing on personal boundaries and the ability to say “no”.
The initiative aims to teach children how to interact safely with peers and adults, recognise their own limits, and avoid pressure and manipulation.
The March lesson is titled “The Magic Word NO: How Not to Get Lost Among Different ‘Yeses’.” It focuses on a child’s right to refuse, respect for one’s own boundaries, and understanding the boundaries of others.
The “Care Lessons” project is implemented by the non-governmental organisation “Academy of Care” in partnership with the Presidential Commissioner for Children’s Rights of Ukraine, Daria Herasymchuk.
The format includes monthly interactive sessions for children aged 5 to 10 and teachers, aimed at developing empathy, inclusive thinking, and habits of caring for mental health.
As part of the lesson, children are introduced to the story of a character named Morkvynka, who learns to recognise her own boundaries and regains the ability to say no.
Through a cartoon, discussions, and interactive exercises, participants practise situations where it is important to say “no”, learn to respond to discomfort, and respect the choices of others.
This approach helps children better understand the material and apply it in real life, particularly in interactions with peers and adults.
The homework component is designed as a shared family activity. Children receive a colouring sheet titled “My Bulka-Morkvulka” and create their own map of personal boundaries. Parents can discuss with the child what feels comfortable and what causes discomfort, helping to reinforce the knowledge gained during the lesson.
The sixth lesson is represented by Alla Demchenko, Candidate of Philological Sciences, Associate Professor, and Programme Manager at the Osvitoria Training Centre.
Lesson materials are available for download in the teachers’ group via the provided link, and educators can use them in the educational process when working with children in learning institutions.
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