Kasi kids can now play at toy library

PLAYING is important for the development of children, but it's not every child who is fortunate enough to have a set of toys.

So, a Mpumalanga-based educational non-profit organisation, Penreach together with the community of Matangaleni outside KaBokweni, officially launched its 100-toy library in the area.

The toy library has been set up at a drop-in centre and consists of educational toys, sensory items, puzzles, fantasy and art, among others. These toys will help disadvantaged children whose parents can't afford to buy toys to access toys and also play with them. 

Yvonne Nkosi said the toy library came at the right time as most parents in the area are struggling and can't afford to buy books or toys. She said the library will keep most children occupied. 

"Some parents survive on the social grant money. They can't afford to buy their children toys. This toy library will be of help for every child in our community because it will not only let them play, but they'll also learn and develop," she said. 

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Florence Nkuna said the kids are going to benefit a lot through reading and playing.

"They'll be wise because they will be developed if they learn new things. The community will also develop because these kids will motivate other children to read or play at the library. They will learn to be independent, share, socialise and also help each other in the process. We appreciate what the organisation has done for this rural area," she said. 

Esther Sithole, an Early Childhood Development manager at Penreach, said Penreach started the toy libraries programme to give kids access to toys mostly because parents in rural communities can't afford to buy toys for their children. 

"We believe that when children play, they learn and develop. That's why we are bringing this initiative to different communities. It doesn't only help children develop but also encourages parental involvement. We also have activity days where parents are invited to play with their children, "said Sithole.