Nest Athens

Choice, voice and collaboration

 

Greek authorities have slowly been moving thousands of refugees from the eastern Aegean islands to the mainland capital of Athens in an effort to improve conditions in overcrowded island camps. Life is intensely difficult for these refugee and migrant children, many who have experienced trauma from fleeing conflict in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. Access to Greek schools is limited during a time when these young children need it most.

 

In partnership with Carry The Future and on-the-ground NGO Action For Education, PILAglobal opened Nest Athens to provide high quality learning opportunities for refugee children in the area. Now serving up to 50 children in three sessions each day, Nest Athens offers a warm, consistent, engaging environment where children can safely do what all children have the right to do – play.

 

Through block-building, art exploration, snack time and storytelling, children have the opportunity to pursue interests, collaborate with adults and children, and find joy in the learning process. Parents are invited to play alongside their children or take part in language classes and educational workshops in an adjoining space. Whether attending the program for days, weeks, or months, children and parents find a feeling of home in the nurturing environment and warm relationships of Nest Athens.