Solutions from Ukraine: Teenager with autism creates game to boost attention in preschoolers
Марко показує зошит, де записував усі ідеї на етапі розробки гри. Фото: Суспільне Луцьк
Fifteen-year-old Marko Bykhniuk from Lutsk, who has autism, has created an educational game called Poll Games to help preschoolers improve their attention skills.
Marko shared his story with Suspilne, explaining that his diagnosis did not stop him from pursuing his dream of developing his own game. He had the idea for a long time, and his father helped bring it to life.
According to Marko, the game's tasks are simple, and coming up with answer choices was not difficult. Some of the images were generated with the help of artificial intelligence. The development process took about a month and a half.
Currently, the game includes four attentiveness mini-games.
During the presentation, 13-year-old Solomiia and 10-year-old Sofiia were the first to try it out. Photo: Suspilne Lutsk
"I want to add two more games," Marko said. "We still need to complete the opposites game and the letter-drawing activity."
Marko's father, Petro Bykhniuk, explained that the game is designed for Android and is currently being tested for release on the Play Market.
"I'm proud of what Marko has accomplished despite his diagnosis," Bykhniuk said. "I hope we can continue developing his skills to the point where he can support himself through this work."
Marko with his mother Alina during the game presentation. Photo: Suspilne Lutsk
During the presentation, Marko's mother, Alina, was the first to try the game. She noted that even though it's designed for preschoolers, she also found it engaging.
"I want parents of special children not to be afraid to nurture their talents," she said. "Every child has a unique gift—you just need to recognize it in time."
Looking ahead, Marko hopes to create an English-language version and a computer-based edition of the game.
Previously, Rubryka reported on 18-year-old Kostia Krasnov, who also has autism and uses his artistic talent to support Ukraine's defenders. After fleeing Donetsk with his family eight years ago, Krasnov now creates artwork for clothing and merchandise, with proceeds benefiting the army. Read more in our article: "Kitty the Defender" and "Ghost of Kyiv": a story of the boy with autism who helps the army.
