Hefallump and a friend we believe was Tigger (in disguise) dropped in at The Domino Foundation offices recently. When they heard that there were a whole lot of pre-schoolers on the NPO’s Early Childhood Development programme, they decided to stay. They had come along with Jamaica Francis who had been spring-cleaning her children’s toy cupboard and bookshelves. “I ended up with a treasure trove of lovely playthings and books which my kids no longer use, and knew there would be someone who could use them to bring joy to other young children; to give them a new lease on life!”
Leader of Domino’s ECD team, Thembelihle Mkhwanazi, explained how the programme is partnering with 34 community pre-schools on the path to formal registration with the DBE, most of which are in need of good quality educational toys and other materials. “The owners and teachers have regular input from our field workers and, through quarterly workshops, have been equipped to run the centres as sustainable small businesses, but teaching resources are often in short supply.”
The ECD Link, liaison manager, Zanele Nzimakwe, added that playing with toys has an essential role in children’s development: “While having fun with the toys, little learners can explore the world around them, educating themselves as they role-play, and learning how to express their feelings and thoughts.” She emphasised that many homes of children at the ECD centres with which her team works are very unlikely to have any books at all in them. Thus, story-time at school becomes a crucial part of their day. “43% of South African homes have no books at all and many parents do not see storytelling as something important in interaction with their children.”
Thembelihle said that Jamaica’s gift was very gratefully received and invited other mums to get into a clear-out of pre-loved toys, children’s early-start puzzles and books in good condition looking for good new homes. Hefallump trumpeted: “Give your kiddies’ toys a second chance at making great memories! Give them to Domino and join me and Tigger (in disguise) to help pre-schoolers to be thoroughly school-ready in every way “Join me and Tigger (in disguise) and help these pre-schoolers to be thoroughly school-ready in every way.” He said Thembelihle can be contacted at ecd@domino.org.za and that the booty can be dropped off at Domino’s offices (125 Adelaide Tambo Drive, Durban North). He and Tigger (in or out of disguise) won’t be there…they will have already found a comfy new home at one of the centres.
