Play-Based Larning in Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania and South Sudan

PlayMatters is a multi-country, evidence-informed initiative designed to transform early childhood and primary education by embedding learning through play (LtP) as a core pedagogical approach. The program responds to the needs of children affected by displacement, conflict, and systemic educational challenges, with a strong focus on improving both learning outcomes and psychosocial well-being. It is implemented across refugee, internally displaced, and host communities, fostering inclusive and equitable access to quality education.

At its core, PlayMatters promotes a shift from traditional, teacher-centered instruction toward child-centered, interactive, and experiential learning. The initiative supports teachers, caregivers, and education actors through structured training, coaching, and provision of practical resources, enabling them to create engaging and inclusive learning environments. By integrating play into daily teaching practices, children develop critical skills such as problem-solving, creativity, collaboration, and emotional regulation, alongside foundational literacy and numeracy competencies.

PlayMatters also places strong emphasis on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), recognizing that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and emotionally secure. The program integrates age-appropriate MHPSS activities, structured play-based interventions, and community-based approaches that support children’s resilience and well-being. This includes targeted support for children experiencing distress, as well as universal approaches that benefit all learners.

In addition, the initiative contributes to social cohesion and community resilience by bringing together children from diverse backgrounds, including refugee, internally displaced, and host communities, through shared play and learning experiences. These interactions help build trust, reduce tensions, and promote peaceful coexistence. PlayMatters also engages caregivers and communities to reinforce positive parenting practices and supportive environments for children’s development.

A key feature of PlayMatters is its focus on systems strengthening. The program works closely with governments, including ministries of education, to integrate LtP into national policies, curricula, and teacher professional development systems. It also strengthens monitoring and evaluation systems to generate evidence on what works, ensuring scalability and sustainability.

Overall, PlayMatters is a holistic approach that combines education, MHPSS, and social cohesion to improve children’s well-being, learning outcomes, and long-term development in fragile and underserved contexts.