Despite the large-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the issues of children's rest and recovery are currently extremely relevant and important. After all, constant stress, prolonged stay in shelters, forced relocations and life in war conditions leave their mark on the emotional and physical state of children. That is why high-quality and safe rest is not only an opportunity to change the situation, but also an important component of restoring children's health and psychological balance.

Typically, during the health campaign, the owners (founders) and staff of children's health and recreation facilities prepare to welcome children, creating conditions for a safe, meaningful, and comfortable vacation.

However, according to preliminary data received from the Department of Education and Science and the Department of Social Protection of the Population of the KHOVA, local governments, as well as founders (heads) of children's health and recreation facilities, due to Russian aggression, the proximity of zones of possible and active hostilities, and the constant threat of missile strikes on the territory of the Kharkiv region and the city of Kharkiv, the opening of children's health and recreation facilities, regardless of type, form of ownership and subordination, and the holding of a health campaign in 2026 are not planned.

At the same time, in accordance with the Program for the Improvement and Recreation of Children of the Kharkiv Region for 2024–2028, approved by the decision of the Kharkiv Regional Council dated June 27, 2024 No. 861-VIII (as amended), during the period of martial law, children have the opportunity to receive improvement and recreation services in institutions located in other regions of Ukraine.

Ensuring sanitary and epidemiological well-being largely depends on how the child is prepared for the trip.

Parents who plan to send their children for recreation and recreation should know that the "Sanitary Regulations for Children's Recreation and Recreation Institutions", approved by the order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine dated 03/20/2026 No. 377, which entered into force on 05/08/2026, provides that:

• Admission of children to a children's institution is allowed if there is a medical certificate in the form of primary accounting documentation No. 079/o "Medical certificate for a child leaving for a children's health and recreation institution" (clause 3 of section 1);
• While staying in a childcare facility, children are prohibited from consuming products purchased outside the childcare facility and meals brought by parents or other legal representatives (clause 15 of section 4);
• the effectiveness of children's rehabilitation in a children's institution is recorded in form 079/o - it is returned to parents or other legal representatives for transfer to the doctor with whom a declaration on the choice of a doctor providing primary medical care was concluded (clause 5 of section 11);
• In emergency situations and under martial law, the availability of protective structures for sheltering children is provided for (clause 11 of section 1).

In addition, when sending a child to a health and recreation facility, it is important for parents to talk to them in advance about the rules of safe behavior. The child must understand the need to adhere to the daily routine, fulfill the requirements of educators and medical staff, and also know that leaving the facility without permission is prohibited. Special attention should be paid to the rules of behavior near water bodies and while swimming in the pool. It is also worth explaining to the child that in case of deterioration of well-being or the occurrence of any health problems, it is necessary to immediately notify educators or medical workers.

May the summer vacation give children vivid impressions, new acquaintances, and safe recovery.