Gugulethu library promotes learning through play

A new resource library for preschools that was launched at Gugulethu library last week encourages learning through play.

The Toy Library hub will provide support, books, puzzles, toys and games for use by preschools in the area.

“This initiative aims to ensure that children living in the area have access to quality early learning play materials. It will also be helpful to the educarers that deal with children on a daily basis.

“These carers are obviously trained and skilled in how to deliver play-based learning. If not, we are here for them. We are always happy to help assist where we can. But with this now in our space, children have a better space to learn. They will learn while playing in a comfortable space,“ said senior librarian Nomonde Mama.

“We need to make sure that young people learn to read as early as possible. We need to teach them to love reading so they can be better citizens. We need to grow a reading nation.”

Children programme co-ordinator Tracey Muir-Rix said the project would promote inclusive play-based learning in the community.

Initial plans for a toy library, where patrons could borrow toys on their cards, had been shelved in favour a facility where the toys and other resources could be used by groups of children at the venue, she said.

She encouraged preschools to join the 1000 Stories Before School Campaign by City libraries aimed at exposing children from infancy to the age of 6 to the world of reading.