By Olwethu Kota
The St Mary’s Development and Care Centre (DCC) came alive with energy and excitement as children celebrated World Play Day under the global theme “Choose play every day”.
The centre, located in the heart of Makhanda, dedicated the day to highlighting the critical role of play in child development not just as fun, but as a fundamental right and tool for learning. Children were treated to a day packed with classic games, vibrant interactions, and plenty of laughter.
From the rhythmic chant of “Fire in the Mountain” to the fast-paced scramble of musical chairs, children immersed themselves in joyful play. Other favourites included Merry-Go-Round the World and Open the Gate, which invited collaboration and encouraged physical activity, imagination, and group participation.
“These games may seem simple, but they carry powerful developmental benefits,” said Nosipho Moyikwa, a facilitator at the DCC. “Children are not just playing they’re building confidence, improving their communication skills, and learning how to work together.”
Volunteers and staff from St Mary’s facilitated the games with warmth and intention, making sure each child felt included, supported, and celebrated. The team used every opportunity to explain the deeper importance of play showing children that it’s through games and joyful exploration that they develop life skills like patience, empathy, and resilience.
The event didn’t just entertain it educated. As children cheered for each other, waited their turn, and navigated moments of competition and co-operation, they were learning to express themselves, problem-solve, and regulate emotions. These are the building blocks of strong emotional and social development.
Make space for play
Play also contributes to physical health. With fewer opportunities for unstructured outdoor play in many children’s daily lives, World Play Day reminded families and educators that making space for daily play is essential to children’s well-being.
As the afternoon sun set on a playground filled with laughter and movement, the message from St Mary’s was loud and clear: Play is essential, not optional.
“Choose play every day,” Moyikwa adds. “Because in every game, there’s a lesson. And in every child, there’s potential waiting to be unlocked through play.”
Olwethu Kota is the communications and public relations officer at St Mary’s DCC.
