This study explores the experiences of Ukrainian refugee children in Estonia following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It focuses on their daily functioning, challenges, and resilience.

Three main themes emerged from interviews carried out - from October to December 2022 - with refugee children aged 10 to 16:

1. The adaptation process was found to have various challenges, including those relating to living environment, language, participation in two different types of schooling, and homesickness. Children highlighted their struggles with social integration and a fear of rejection.
2. The school experiences of these children tend to have unfolded in two phases: initially, they engaged in passive observation and limited interaction with Estonian classmates, before progressing to more active participation (several expressed ongoing concerns around being unable to meet language proficiency requirements).
3. The children emphasised strong need for psychological support to address traumatic experiences and stress related to the war in Ukraine and their displacement. They outlined the importance of family, peer support, engagement in leisure activities, and a connection to nature in facilitating their adaptation.

The findings underline the significance of tailored support services, language acquisition programmes, mental health services, and culturally sensitive interventions for Ukrainian refugee children in Estonia. The implications include a need for reforms in education, integration support, and long-term monitoring to promote these children's well-being and facilitate their successful integration.