Education
The maps and the interviews illustrated the extent to which school plays a pivotal role in the children’s lives. Their narratives indicated the many ways in which school provides them with opportunities for improving their capabilities and competences, thereby enabling a better future.
“The school is a safe place for me, where I can feel comfortable playing and chatting with my friends. When there is war, we cannot go to the school and this is so sad. […] I learn many things that will improve my life allowing me to find a good job, help my family and be happy”. (Gaza, 11, male)
In accordance with the literature on the topic (Winthrop & Kirk, 2008), school supports and shapes children’s lives in many different ways: it allows for a return of normalcy; it offers some routine amidst the otherwise unpredictable environment; it acts as a mechanism of socialization that provides an opportunity to meet friends and peers; it provides a nurturing environment since school is safe and proactive place within the chaos of the occupation. Finally, school plays a pivotal role in enhancing coping and hope since it is a place of learning that is foundational to improving the child’s future prospects.