We are thrilled to announce the successful culmination of the South African National Conference on Play-Based Learning, held at the prestigious Indaba Hotel in Fourways from February 21 to February 22, 2024. Under the theme of “Early Learning and Development: Foundations for the Future through Partnerships on Play, Parents, Practice, and Policy,” the conference brought together esteemed professionals, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in the early childhood development (ECD) sector.
Hosted by a consortium of leading organizations, including the Department of Basic Education, UNICEF, Cotlands, the LEGO Foundation, Sesame Workshop South Africa, and HOPE worldwide South Africa, the event aimed to promote the understanding of collective opportunities and responsibilities in ensuring that play-based learning occupies a central role in facilitating young children’s early learning and development.
The conference provided a platform for insightful discussions, knowledge exchange, and collaborative initiatives to advance the integration of play-based learning in both home and institutional settings. Attendees engaged in fruitful deliberations on various aspects such as effective practices, parental involvement, capacity building, and policy frameworks to support holistic early childhood development.
By all accounts the conference was a resounding success, with participants expressing enthusiasm and commitment towards harnessing the power of play for the benefit of young children across South Africa. The invaluable contributions and active participation of all stakeholders have significantly enriched the discourse and set the stage for impactful interventions in the field of ECD.
In the spirit of transparency and knowledge sharing, we are pleased to announce that the conference report, along with its comprehensive recommendations, will be disseminated in the coming weeks. This document will serve as a roadmap for future endeavours and guide the implementation of evidence-based strategies to promote play-based learning and optimize children’s developmental outcomes.
The organising partners extend a heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, partners, sponsors, and organizers for their unwavering support and dedication towards advancing early childhood development in South Africa. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future, where every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue our collective journey towards creating nurturing environments and empowering communities for the holistic development of young children.
