Ruang Play Creates Space for Every Child to Learn, Grow and Play | KiddyNews

YGG Initiative Supports Underserved Young Children and Families Through Play-Based Learning

For young children, play is more than entertainment. It can be a natural way to explore, learn and build important skills during the early years. But for families facing financial constraints, access to quality early learning opportunities may be limited.

Ruang Play, a family and child community centre initiative by Yayasan Generasi Gemilang (YGG), aims to help bridge this gap by providing an accessible space where underserved children aged up to five and their parents can learn and grow together.

The initiative complements YGG’s early childhood development programmes and responds to challenges faced by families who may have difficulty accessing quality early learning, including long waiting lists for public kindergartens and the need for additional support during children’s formative years.

Learning Through Everyday Play

Ruang Play is designed around the idea that meaningful learning can happen naturally through play.

Activities such as building, drawing, pretend play and exploring new environments give children opportunities to develop cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills. At the same time, parents can become more actively involved in their children’s development.

YGG CEO Melissa Ngiam said the early years are particularly important in shaping children’s growth and that every family should have access to spaces that support this development.

For families with fewer resources, she said, Ruang Play provides a place where children and parents can spend meaningful time together through play and exploration.

Supporting Parents Too

The centre is also intended to strengthen parents’ confidence in supporting their children’s development.

By participating in activities alongside their children and educators, caregivers can gain practical ideas and experiences that may be applied in everyday family life.

Ngiam said support from sponsors, including IKEA Malaysia, helped YGG create an environment where children can enjoy meaningful play while parents and educators are supported in their roles.

As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations in Malaysia, IKEA Malaysia contributed a bookcase, play kitchen and dollhouse to the centre.

IKEA Malaysia country marketing and PR manager Amanda Low said creating a better everyday life extends beyond the home and includes giving children opportunities to learn, play and realise their potential.

Building Stronger Foundations in the Early Years

YGG has worked since 2008 to support underresourced children, young people and families through education, nutrition and protection programmes.

Ruang Play adds another dimension to these efforts by focusing on children’s early development and family engagement.

Its value, however, goes beyond the toys and physical environment. By creating a safe and welcoming space for children and parents to play, explore and learn together, the initiative aims to give young children stronger foundations during their formative years.

For children who may have fewer opportunities and resources, access to a safe place to play can be a meaningful first step towards a brighter future.

Source:

The Star – “Where every child can play”

Thoughtfully adapted by KiddyNews. Keeping parents and educators informed with the latest ECCE developments from Malaysia and beyond.