The recent earthquake in Myanmar has left behind more than just physical devastation—it has deeply impacted the emotional well-being of thousands of children. In times of crisis, mental and emotional support is just as urgent as food, shelter, and medical aid. That’s why World Vision responded immediately, ensuring children have the resources to cope and recover. Thanks to the generosity of supporters, mental health programmes have reached over 2,000 children, offering them a safe space to heal and find hope again.
The earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, displacing thousands of families and leaving children vulnerable. Nearly 1.6 million out of 3.5 million internally displaced people are in the hardest-hit regions—Mandalay, Sagaing, and parts of Shan State. The arrival of the monsoon season is expected to worsen conditions, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and making recovery even more challenging.
For children like Than Zin, the earthquake was a terrifying experience. “When the earthquake struck, I was at my grandfather’s house preparing to go to tuition class. Suddenly, everything started collapsing, and I was terrified,” he recalls. The intense shaking trapped him and his brother inside, unable to escape. After the disaster, his family had to relocate to a church compound for safety.
World Vision’s Immediate Response
In the aftermath, World Vision stepped in to provide essential relief:
- Food Assistance: Over 120,733 people, including children, received essential food items such as instant noodles, dry food, and high-energy biscuits.
- Clean Water & Sanitation: 27,179 people were reached through Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) assistance, ensuring access to safe drinking water.
- Emergency Education: 1,034 children were supported through learning facilities to continue their education despite the crisis.
- Mental Health & Psychosocial Support: 2,725 people received mental health services to help cope with trauma.
But beyond physical aid, the organization recognized the urgent need for emotional support. That’s where Child Friendly Spaces come in.
Healing Through Play
Child Friendly Spaces are designed to help children process their trauma in a safe and nurturing environment. Here, children can engage in activities that bring them joy and provide a temporary escape from their worries.
Than Zin shares his experience: “I am happy to participate in the child-friendly space’s activities. I get a chance to make new friends and play games with them. The teachers are very nice to us, and I am very grateful for that.”
These spaces offer structured activities such as reading clubs, poetry recitation, and interactive games—all aimed at fostering emotional resilience. “The child-friendly space brings me joy and gives me a temporary escape from my worries,” Than Zin says.
For many children, the earthquake has left lasting scars—not just on their homes but on their hearts. Than Zin’s apartment was damaged, making it unsafe to return. “I envy my friends who still live in their homes, while I have to stay in a temporary shelter,” he admits.
Yet, despite the hardships, Child Friendly Spaces are helping children rebuild their sense of normalcy. Through play, learning, and social interaction, they are rediscovering hope.
World Vision is also working with families to support children's emotional recovery and ensure they feel safe again. Beyond immediate relief, the organization is committed to sustained support for livelihoods, education, and essential infrastructure repair.
You can learn more about how World Vision is helping children in Myanmar and support their work here Together, we can ensure that every child affected by this disaster finds healing, hope, and a brighter future.