The Importance of Play 

A child talks through play, and listens through stories

Hands at Work’s vision to know each of our children and Care Workers comes to life when we have meaningful interactions and relationships with them. God created us to know each other and to share experiences together. 

Many of the most vulnerable children carry responsibilities far beyond their age. Often children assume adult roles in their household like caring for a younger sibling, or in some situations fully caring for their siblings in the absence of an adult figure. Additionally, many children are responsible for caring for their sick Caregivers. With long walks to school, chores and significant emotional trauma such as neglect and abuse, a child’s ability and freedom to play is limited. 

When children have the freedom to play, they can start to communicate through their ‘language’, unburdening themselves of their painful experiences and replacing those with moments of joy and fun. Through informal play and purposeful adult interaction, children are able to develop in their emotional intelligence and self-regulation and develop key building blocks for their future, including the development of motor skills, communication and problem solving. 

Playing games and activities with one another is an engaging way to build bonds, and involve both Care Workers and children. Each positive interaction that children have with Care Workers is a step towards healing, in learning how to express themselves and in knowing that they are loved and seen.

Through simple games and songs, the joy and dignity of the children can start to be restored. Through listening to the children sharing their favourite games, song, or activities, they can grow in confidence and understand their value by being heard.

When children come to Care Points across Africa, they have an opportunity to do what they cannot during the rest of their day – simply be a child.