A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake shook Dingri county in China's Xizang Autonomous Region during school vacation season, leaving young survivors grappling with invisible wounds. ๐๏ธ Now, teams of dedicated volunteers are stepping up with basketballs, art supplies, and games to help children process trauma through joy and movement.
'Play is universal medicine,' says volunteer team leader Yang Wei, whose group travels between temporary shelters. 'When we organize relay races or dance circles, you see shoulders relax and smiles reappear.' ๐จ๐โ๏ธ
The initiative combines psychological first aid with cultural activities familiar to local children, from traditional dance workshops to high-altitude soccer matches. Researchers say such community-led programs help rebuild both emotional resilience and social connections disrupted by disaster.
Reference(s):
Volunteers help children cope with trauma through sports and fun
cgtn.com