In the light of hope, a small area called the “Child-Friendly Space” has brought together youth leaders, staff, and volunteer teams to organise activities filled with love and care, supporting children through the difficult times caused by the Thai–Cambodian border situation.
In early August 2025, teams from World Vision Foundation of Thailand and UNICEF visited the Child-Friendly Spaces in temporary shelters in Surin and Sisaket provinces. This initiative is part of a collaboration to reduce risks and create safe spaces for children affected by the border situation.
Kasama, or “Meen,” a young girl, shared her experience: “That day I was at school around 10 am when the teacher told students to hurry home. My friends and I were terrified. Everyone was crying. On the way home, I saw many people evacuating. When I got home, my grandmother and I quickly packed essentials and headed to the temporary shelter provided by the authorities.”
“The first day I arrived, I was scared. Everyone seemed busy, the bathrooms were crowded, and people’s sleeping times did not match. I could not sleep for several days. But now I have adjusted.”
Creative activities such as drawing, colouring, play-dough modelling, and recreational games not only help children relieve stress but also allow them to express emotions and feelings through art. Every line and colour on paper reflects the inner stories of children who have been displaced from their homes.
Satsawat, or “Ming,” a World Vision Thailand youth leader from Surin province, said: “I am glad to be part of organising activities for children staying in the shelter. I have applied leadership and self-expression skills I learned from World Vision Thailand’s youth development programmes to care for the kids—through recreational activities, drawing, making clay dolls, and playing music to help everyone relax.”
“I feel proud and delighted to see the children having fun, and that I can help them relieve stress.”
One of the children’s favourite activities is drawing and colouring, which gives them the freedom to express their feelings, dreams, and imagination. Each colour is a voice from a small heart learning to stand strong amidst love, understanding, and support from caring adults. Many of the children’s drawings reflect both sadness and hope. They depict their experiences through images of homes, schools, and friends, along with their desire to return to a safe life soon.
“Today, staff from World Vision Thailand and UNICEF came to organise activities. I am so happy. I got to sing, dance, and draw. It helped me relax from the situation I have been through. But I still want to go back to school soon. I miss my friends. I want to talk and play with them. I pray for the situation to improve soon so I can go home,” Meen said with a smile and hope.
Similarly, Ming, though now a volunteer organising activities in the Child-Friendly Space, is also a youth affected by the situation. “I am touched by the kindness of Thai people. Everyone helps each other, whether with supplies, food, or care. It is a painful yet warm experience. Even though the shelter is adequate, everyone still misses home. We all want to go back soon because home is the warmest place.”
Every blooming smile, every growing hope, and every returning laugh is the result of compassion and collaboration from those who never overlook the suffering of others. World Vision Foundation of Thailand thanks everyone who helped create safe spaces for children to regain happiness, smiles, and hope once again.
