A pilot project focused on empowering primary caregivers with tools to support early childhood development is making a meaningful impact in the Imizamo Yethu community.
The Learn Together @Home initiative, spearheaded by Funda Kunye organisation, recently hosted an interactive session that equipped parents and caregivers with practical strategies to foster learning and bonding at home.
The main aim of the pilot was to assess community engagement and commitment, with a particular focus on caregivers who spend the majority of their time with children. Participants were invited based on past involvement with Funda Kunye and expressions of interest from the broader community.
During the session, caregivers explored a range of hands-on, cost-effective activities using recycled and readily available materials. These activities not only promoted early learning through play but also highlighted the vital role caregivers play in shaping a child’s early brain development and long-term academic success.
Each caregiver received an activity pack that included a pamphlet with easy-to-follow instructions, engaging resources, and guidance on how each activity supports developmental milestones, from language acquisition and motor skills to emotional bonding. Age-appropriate books were also provided to encourage literacy and foster stronger parent-child relationships.
“The programme supports caregivers by providing them with the tools they need to create nurturing, stimulating environments using what they already have at home,” a representative from Funda Kunye explained.
While the current focus is on evaluating the pilot’s impact in Imizamo Yethu, plans are underway to potentially extend the programme to Hangberg.
Community responses have been positive.
One local teacher remarked: “This is exactly what the community needs. You have no idea what impact you are making.”
With its strong emphasis on empowering caregivers and building stronger foundations for early childhood development, Learn Together @Home may soon serve as a model for similar initiatives across the region.
