The Domino Foundation is helping children discover that some of life’s most valuable lessons are learnt through play.
Through a partnership with Kids Collab and the support of FedEx, The Domino Foundation has introduced the Play Parks programme at Inanda and Ekuthuleni Primary Schools, where it already facilitates its Life Skills programme.
The initiative provides free, structured, play-based sessions that equip children with vital physical, social and emotional skills while creating a safe and enjoyable space to learn.
At Ekuthuleni Primary, Grade 4, 5 and 6 pupils participate in the after-school sessions, while Grade 3 pupils at Inanda Primary have also been included.
The Domino Foundation’s Life Skills Team Leader, Thobile Msani, said the programme has quickly become a favourite among the learners.
“The children are loving the sessions, which are fun and also develop their physical coordination, teamwork and understanding of safety. The activities complement our Life Skills programme by encouraging children to grow in confidence while learning important values through play,” she said.
Kids Collab, a non-profit organisation dedicated to early childhood development through play, movement and wellbeing, developed the Play Parks initiative to provide inclusive and accessible opportunities for children, particularly in underserved communities. Recognising the work already being done by The Domino Foundation in local schools, Kids Collab partnered with the organisation to implement the programme at Inanda and Ekuthuleni Primary Schools.
Rachel Marshall of Kids Collab said the initiative is designed to nurture children’s holistic development.
“Our focus is on developing fundamental movement skills, social-emotional learning and providing inclusive, accessible play for children in underserved areas,” she said.
The programme reflects the message behind the 2026 International Day of Play theme, ‘Protect play, protect childhood’, which highlights the essential role that play has in children’s healthy development.
Marshall added that when meaningful play is combined with life lessons, children are empowered to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
For more information about the Play Parks initiative, contact Rachel Marshall at rachel@kidscollab.co.za.
