In the border town of Shlomi, families are finding new hope after war through an innovative early childhood program designed to heal trauma using the five senses. The Early Starters safe space, created by an Israeli nonprofit, offers a gentle, sensory-rich environment for children and parents to reconnect and recover together. The center features calming music, soothing scents, soft materials, and flexible zones for creativity, movement, and shared family experiences, all tailored to help young children process trauma and rebuild a sense of safety. Parents report that the space not only helps their children manage emotions and behavior but also strengthens community ties and restores family routines disrupted by evacuation and conflict.

Unlike other programs, the Shlomi center integrates parents and children in joint activities, with a unique house structure that allows families to play and heal together. The approach is grounded in research on trauma and sensory perception, emphasizing calm, rounded shapes and gentle stimulation to support emotional recovery. Since opening, the center has become a vital resource for families seeking stability and connection after months of upheaval, with plans for further expansion as its impact grows.