The Play, Learn & Grow project was a 24-month initiative implemented by ActionAid Bangladesh with the support of ActionAid Italy. Launched in January 2023, the project aimed to create safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environments for children from marginalized communities across nine districts in Bangladesh.
Under ActionAid Bangladesh’s Child Sponsorship Programme, 82 Child Spaces operate nationwide. Through this project, 66 of these spaces were transformed into enriched, child-friendly environments. Among them, 41 centers were fully equipped with interactive play-based learning materials, while 25 received essential infrastructural improvements including electricity, lighting, fans, water filters, first aid kits, waste bins, and digital equipment.
Previously, many centers lacked adequate facilities and were limited to academic tutoring. The project introduced colorful book corners, science kits, art and craft supplies, musical instruments, and indoor/outdoor games to foster creativity, critical thinking, and cognitive growth.
Additionally, Early Childhood Development (ECD) training was provided to facilitators to enhance interactive, play-based teaching methodologies. Professional music teachers were also recruited in two Local Rights Programmes (LRPs) to nurture children’s creative talents.
Today, nearly 10,000 children benefit from improved learning environments that promote confidence, well-being, and holistic development.
Project Key Outputs
- The project successfully upgraded 66 Child Spaces across nine districts, directly benefiting approximately 10,000 marginalized children. Forty-one centers were fully equipped with play-based learning tools, while 25 received essential infrastructure upgrades including electricity and improved facilities.
- Interactive learning materials such as science kits, puzzles, globes, musical instruments, and art supplies were introduced to promote creativity and problem-solving skills. Two LRPs recruited professional music teachers, enabling structured music education for 300–350 children.
- Two rounds of Early Childhood Development (ECD) training were conducted, engaging 56 facilitators and staff members. These trainings strengthened facilitators’ capacity to implement play-based learning approaches and create inclusive, child-friendly environments.
As a result, Child Spaces evolved from basic academic support centers into vibrant hubs of joyful learning, creativity, and child empowerment.