In mid-February, we launched a parent-child workshop in 48 public schools in Sahid Lakhan, Gorkha, Nepal. The aim of this initiative is to promote learning through play and strengthen the links between children, parents and teachers.
Learning through play: an effective tool
One of the key principles of this activity is that children learn by playing. We also want to show parents that they can create games from the simple resources at their disposal. Using locally-made toys stimulates children's imagination and cognitive development.
Multiple objectives for a lasting impact
More than just a fun activity, the workshop has several objectives:
- Encourage children to socialize with their peers, siblings and parents
- Build children's self-confidence by developing their skills through play
- Provide a forum for parents, teachers and organizers to discuss child protection and well-being.
- Make parents aware of the importance of play in their child's development, and teach them how to create a safe environment for these activities.
- Rediscovering the joy of playing and laughing together as a family
To date, the activity has been implemented in some 30 schools out of the 48 planned. Parents are active participants, and appreciate the enriching exchanges. They are keen to learn more about educational practices adapted to early childhood.
For their part, teachers have welcomed this initiative, which enables them to strengthen their ties with parents and better illustrate the importance of play in learning.
