Play Is a Right: New Initiative to expand Play-Based Learning

Tetovo, 12 December 2025 – During a visit to Kindergarten Mladost‑Rinia in Tetovo, the Ministry of Social Policy, Demographics and Youth, UNICEF, and partners launched the new “Playful Learning and Early Childhood Education” initiative to promote integrated approaches to play in early childhood.

The initiative, supported by Stiftung Kinderförderung von Playmobil (Playmobil Foundation), is part of UNICEF’s broader programming to enhance early childhood development. The programme aims to ensure that all children, regardless of their background or circumstances, have ongoing opportunities for playful development and learning.

To put play-based approaches at the heart of early childhood education, the initiative includes support for developing new Early Childhood Education Curriculum and revising the national Early Learning and Development Standards.

“Investing in early childhood development is investing in the future of our society. Play is the language of children – through it they learn, grow, and prepare for life” said Fatmir Limani, Minister of Social Policy, Demographics and Youth.

As part of the "Playful learning and Early Childhood Education” initiative, the Stiftung Kinderförderung von Playmobil also donated over 9,000 playsets to UNICEF in North Macedonia.  These playsets were distributed to all public kindergartens and other institutions caring for children. They are being used to teach children about healthy nutrition, recycling, environmental protection, and equality between boys and girls in a fun and engaging way.

“Play is essential for learning, health and resilience,” said Lesley Miller, UNICEF Representative. “From the earliest days of life, playful interactions stimulate brain development and help build secure emotional bonds. For pre-school aged children, play provides an opportunity to explore abilities, nurture curiosity, build confidence, and lay the foundations for life-long learning.”

Despite these benefits, playful learning is not widely appreciated in North Macedonia. Data indicates that 57% of mothers and only 5% of fathers participate in playful learning activities with their children aged 3–4 years.

To address this gap, the initiative will also support efforts to empower parents and caregivers by building capacities of home visiting nurses and expanding the Bebbo parenting app with information, resources, and strategies to incorporate play into daily life.

“We are pleased to support this valuable project both with a donation and Playmobil material,” said Andrea Möhringer and Florian Löffler, members of the Board of the Stiftung Kinderförderung von Playmobil. “And we are curious to learn not only how the curriculum will develop but also how opportunities for playful development and learning will grow.”

By supporting both frontline workers and families, the “Playful Learning and Early Childhood Education” initiative aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive through the power of play.