Promoting Positive Parenting Through Play-Based Learning in District Dadu

On 11 June 2026, Parents’ Day was celebrated at the ECD Play Labs in Village Ibrahim Chandio (Union Council Gozo) and Village Gulzar Thebo (Union Council Dhani Bux Bughio) in District Dadu, bringing together parents, caregivers, and children in an engaging and interactive learning environment. The event was designed to promote positive parenting and strengthen parental engagement in early childhood development through play-based learning and awareness raising.

A total of 60 caregivers participated in the celebration, including 23 fathers and 37 mothers. Through a range of interactive activities, parents and children learned, played, and spent quality time together, reinforcing the importance of nurturing care and positive parenting practices. The event highlighted how meaningful engagement between parents and children can contribute to healthy emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development during the early years of life.

In many rural communities of District Dadu, parents have limited opportunities to learn about early childhood development, nutrition, immunization, child protection, and the importance of creating a stimulating home environment. Recognizing these challenges, the ECD Play Labs introduced Parents’ Day as a platform to actively involve caregivers in their children’s developmental journey while increasing awareness of key health and nutrition messages.

Parents participated alongside their children in structured play-based learning activities designed to encourage interaction, communication, and learning. Many caregivers shared that it was their first experience engaging with their children in a guided learning environment. They expressed appreciation for learning how simple everyday activities such as storytelling, playing, and talking with children can support brain development, strengthen emotional bonds, and improve learning outcomes.

Throughout the sessions, key messages were shared on balanced nutrition, proper childcare practices, child protection, timely immunization, and the importance of creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children. Fathers who traditionally had limited involvement in child-focused activities actively participated in the sessions, highlighting the potential for greater family engagement in early learning and development.

The celebration resulted in positive behavioral changes among participating caregivers. Many parents expressed their commitment to spending more quality time with their children through play and learning activities at home. Participants also demonstrated improved understanding of nutrition, immunization, and child protection practices, reflecting a growing recognition of their role in supporting their children’s healthy growth and development.

As one caregiver shared, “This event helped us understand how important it is to spend time playing and learning with our children. We realized that simple activities at home can help our children grow smarter, healthier, and happier.”