Even in times of war, childhood must remain bright, active, and full of new experiences. It is with this goal that the Donetsk Regional Center for Tourism and Local History of Student Youth, currently operating in the city of Kropyvnytskyi, is implementing a series of tourist and sports events under the slogan "Tourism is marching through Ukraine."
During the two weeks of summer vacation, about 700 schoolchildren, many of whom are internally displaced children from Donetsk region, joined in active outdoor recreation. For many, this was their first encounter with the world of tourism – and it will definitely be remembered for a long time!
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, the children tested themselves on the tourist obstacle course: parallel bars, vertical pendulum, spider web, "butterfly" – each element posed a challenge for agility, endurance, and mutual support. It was especially touching to observe how participants overcame barriers, encouraged each other, and genuinely rejoiced in every victory.
No less exciting was the "Maze" distance – a form of micro-orientation that allowed children not only to get acquainted with sports orienteering but also to take their first steps towards spatial thinking skills: learning not to get lost, but to find themselves on the map – both literally and symbolically.
Many held a real bow for the first time, and after the first shot, they wanted to shoot again and again! Some participants returned to shooting time and again, demonstrating enthusiasm, excitement, and even remarkable accuracy.
Summer vacations are not just about relaxation. At a time when the whole country is experiencing deep psychological challenges due to the full-scale war, events like "Tourism is marching through Ukraine" give children faith in their own abilities, support, warm memories, and emotional healing.
May this summer be a time of discoveries, joy, and inspiration for every child from Donetsk region!