“Play is very important to a child’s development. It is an integral part of a child’s Early Years and develops a foundation for later learning.”
– Fathima Rawat, ECD4ALL Programme Lead
Playing promotes a child’s healthy brain development and assists in the development of self-esteem as well as other skills like language, communication, and problem-solving. Play also develops a child’s fine and gross motor skills, helping them to understand things like gravity and balance. Physical activity in play has numerous health benefits too, such as improving focus, increasing energy for daily activities, and promoting strength and well-being.
Imaginative and explorative play is essential for healthy childhood development, laying a strong foundation for their adolescence and adult life. With this belief, this year our ECD beneficiaries celebrated World Play Day at the Bugz Play Park in Kraaifontein.
Positive parent and child attachment is also crucial for positive child development. Thus our little heroes were accompanied not just by their teachers but by their mothers too! Mothers got the opportunity to play with their children as well as taking some of the rides in the park.
Our ECD beneficiaries also had the opportunity to meet and pet some tame animals in the little petting zoo, including goats, rabbits, and chicken.