Recently in Ostrovets, on an open house day dedicated to the 85th anniversary of military unit №7434, children from kindergarten No. 5 were honored guests, experiencing a glimpse of military life. Some children, by the end of the event, expressed interest in becoming soldiers.

The event sparked mixed reactions within the public: not only did the children visit a military unit, but they were also allowed to handle various weapons—from automatic rifles to grenade launchers, which they informally referred to as “bazookas.” This year, these preschoolers became the “youngest protégés” of the military, as unit №7434 assumed a mentorship role over the children’s upbringing and education.

“Civic-Patriotic Education” Through Exposure to Weaponry

The collaboration between the kindergarten and the military unit began as an initiative of the kindergarten director, Yelena Saikovich. She explained that the main focus of the kindergarten’s educational approach is civic and patriotic upbringing, and that partnership with the military complements this concept seamlessly.

“We have designed activities not only for the children but also for adults, such as intellectual games for both soldiers and kindergarten staff,” Saikovich shared.

To strengthen ties with the military, the kindergarten used non-budgetary funds to sew junior cadet uniforms for the children. Additionally, members of the military-patriotic club “Unity” will be involved in the military educating the children.

Children, Weapons, and Military Vehicles

The children’s tour of the military base was memorable not only for the sight of combat machinery but also for their direct interaction with weaponry. The young participants shared their impressions of handling assault rifles, inspecting grenade launchers, and trying on military uniforms.

“The rifle is heavy, which is why it has a strap,” explained five-year-old David.

Many of the children were thrilled by the experience. Four-year-old Ksusha, who tried on a military uniform, has already decided she wants to join the military, just like her father.

Criticism of Child Militarization

The recent events in Ostrovets are part of a broader trend in Belarus, where militaristic elements have been systematically integrated into children’s upbringing for some time. Schoolchildren are taught to march, introduced to military equipment, and participate in “field games.” However, involving preschoolers has raised particular concerns.

Experts warn that such events blur the line between childhood and a culture of military worship, manipulating children to serve ideological agendas. Rather than engaging in play and creativity, children are exposed to the world of weapons and violence in a playful format, potentially impacting their worldview and mental health.

“When children view weapons as something exciting and fascinating, it fosters a dangerous normalization of violence,” psychologists observe.

What’s Behind It?

The militarization of children in Belarus reflects not only the state’s internal ideological stance but also its broader preparation for potential military conflicts. Such programs cultivate loyalty to the government among the younger generation, normalize the use of violence, and reinforce a culture that venerates the military.

Society must ask itself: what kind of future do we envision for our children? Is it worth sacrificing a carefree childhood to shape them into “young patriots”? Incidents like the one in Ostrovets serve as a troubling signal, calling for attention and critical reflection.

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