Play to Learn
Unlocking the power of play for children affected by conflict and crisis
Play to Learn has reached over 33 million children in 32 countries with playful early learning and media — and we’re ready to do more.
With more than 120 million people displaced worldwide and 1 in 6 children growing up in conflict zones, the need to support young children and their families has never been greater. That’s why, six years ago, the LEGO Foundation made a bold investment in the Play to Learn partners to come together for children and families affected by conflict and crisis at massive scale.
Play to Learn combines educational, playful, and research-based Sesame media content with contextually relevant direct services from BRAC and the International Rescue Committee. While the program has focused on two key regions in crisis — the Middle East and Bangladesh — it has expanded further than ever expected, to Kenya, Ukraine, and Latin America.
Today, we know it works. Play to Learn research from independent evaluators at NYU Global TIES for Children shows the significant impact of media on children’s emotional development, even in the most challenging circumstances. Media can help children strengthen bonds with caregivers, deepen learning, and build foundational emotional skills that can last a lifetime.
Play to Learn has moved the needle in terms of speed of response, number of children reached, and modes of reaching. With flexible tools like Watch, Play, Learn: Early Learning Videos and a wide array of programs, resources, and curricula, Play to Learn is poised to deliver further results across contexts and geographies.
How Sesame Workshop Brings Playful Learning to Conflict Zones
Play to Learn has far exceeded project targets, reaching over 33 million children in 32 countries through broadcast media and direct services, and demand is growing.
Broadcast
Play to Learn has reached 31 million children through broadcasting Watch, Play, Learn: Early Learning Videos.
Direct Services
Play to Learn has reached a total of 2.7 million children, caregivers, and facilitators in homes and early learning centers.
Global Reach
Play to Learn’s content and media-enhanced programs reach children and families affected by conflict, crisis, and displacement in 32 countries.
Watch, Play Learn — A Media Innovation in the Humanitarian Space
Sesame Workshop has more than 55 years of research proving that media can teach. Today, we know that media is a powerful tool to help children continue to learn when traditional services are disrupted. Watch, Play Learn: Early Learning Videos are portable, scalable, and flexible animations that children everywhere can relate to and learn from. Designed to reflect the needs and experiences of children affected by crisis, Watch, Play, Learn videos are easily dubbed and tailored to new crises as they emerge. Learn how Watch, Play, Learn can be used in crisis settings.
Play is Much More Than Fun
Play is more than fun; it’s how children build lifelong cognitive, physical, social-emotional, and creative skills. For those affected by trauma, play provides stress-relief, normalcy, and joy. Research from Play to Learn shows that media-integrated play supports emotional development in children.
Advocating for Children in Crisis
