IMPORTANCE OF PLAYPLAY2LEARNSAFE SPACE
On September 21, 2024, over 100 volunteers came together to distribute games to over 1,000 children and conduct fun activities at a school in Khar. The day marked 20 years of The Opentree Foundation, and was filled with learning, games, but most of all, PLAY!
We asked one of our volunteers to write a few lines and here’s what she had to say:
The Opentree Foundation (TOF) celebrated its 20th anniversary — a momentous milestone for an organisation that has been championing the power of play for two decades. Being a part of this celebration as a volunteer-intern was nothing short of magical, and I’m thrilled to share my experience with everyone reading this blog.
I’ve been volunteering with TOF for over six months now, and during this time, I’ve witnessed firsthand how play can truly enrich a child’s life. The anniversary event was a blockbuster — filled with laughter, vibrant energy, and, of course, lots of joyful play! The games and activities were loved not just by the children, but by all of us who were there. I found myself instantly bonding with the children, their excitement and cheerfulness lifting my spirits and reminding me exactly why I’m here.
As the event drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. The children didn’t want the play to stop — they didn’t want me to leave! That heartfelt connection, their eagerness to keep playing and engaging, is what makes TOF so special.
It has truly become family to me. It has opened my eyes to the importance of play — not just for children, but for all of us. I’ve learned how play supports cognitive development, builds social-emotional skills, reduces stress, and contributes to a child’s overall well-being. And personally, it has helped me reconnect with my inner child. Attending play sessions and participating in board games, puzzles, and creative activities takes me back to my own childhood — and I enjoy it just as much as the children.
Though my journey with TOF is just beginning, I know it’s one I’ll cherish for life. The team is passionate, driven, and always gives their best — to the children, to the volunteers, and to each other. I feel proud to be part of a mission that is so meaningful and necessary.
If you ever get the chance, I urge you to volunteer with TOF. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss — one that will change your perspective on play, childhood, and life itself.
Play is not just fun. It’s essential. We must speak more openly about its value and work together to break the taboo that play is “unnecessary.” Every child has the right to play — it should not be a privilege or an afterthought. It should be a necessity.
