Dlala Play Programme: Empowering Early Learning Through Play

The Dlala Play Programme is a vibrant, play-based learning initiative developed by Inceba Trust in collaboration with FNB ECD. This pioneering programme is a cornerstone in equipping ECD practitioners with the tools and confidence required to foster rich, structured, and joy-filled learning environments.

Context in a National Landscape

The national spotlight on ECD has intensified: in March 2025, the South African government committed R10 billion to expand quality ECD across the country, acknowledging the first years of life as pivotal for lifelong success.

Yet challenges remain.

Experts have emphasised that while the infrastructure exists, real progress hinges on delivery: “The biggest issue facing early childhood development… is the lack of political will” despite abundant data and proper legislation. In this climate, initiatives like the Dlala Play Programme, which is grounded in local implementation and trusted partnerships, play an especially vital role.

What is the Dlala Play Programme?

Designed to nurture young minds through engaging day-by-day routines, the Dlala Play Programme offers:

Easy-to-implement lesson plans, colourful posters, and interactive songs in multiple South African languages.

Content tailored for learners from babies through to near-Grade R, embedding fun, stimulation, and balanced developmental support across cognitive, social-emotional, and environmental awareness domains.

Since its inception in early 2024, the now freely accessible programme, has been embraced across ECD centres and homes throughout South Africa, including rural and under-resourced communities.

Training, Implementation, and Impact by Inceba Trust

Inceba Trust is renowned for supporting children in “body, mind and spirit” to step confidently into their futures. It has integrated the Dlala Play Programme into its holistic ECD offerings, which include health support, nutrition, safety, responsive caregiving, and leadership training.

As of mid-2025, Inceba Trust supports:

201 ECD centres 1 000 staff members 8 293 children across Franschhoek, Groenheuwel, Kayamandi, Klapmuts, Mbekweni, Paarl East, Wellington, Worcester in the Western Cape and Ritchie near Kimberley in Northern Cape.

ECD teachers report that the playful, resource-rich framework of the Dlala Play Programme keeps children deeply engaged, and the structured activities help create lessons that are both interactive and developmentally enriching.

FNB ECD “Care Community” Support

Through their FNB ECD Care Community membership, ECD centres gain access to the Dlala Play Programme as well as a wealth of complementary support, including:

• Guidance for centre compliance.
• Practical support around childhood illness, home and centre safety.
• Vocational training covering First Aid, Fire Safety, Child Protection, Special Needs, Food Handling, and more.

This comprehensive support fosters resilient, safe, and nurturing early learning environments where children thrive.

Featured Highlights and Strategic Strengths

• Fun, structured routines with multi-language resources for ages 0 to Grade R Scope (2025).
• Rolled out across 201 ECD centres, with 1 000 trained practitioners and 8 293 children served.
• Integrates play, health, nutrition, safety, emotional support, and vocational trainings.
• Supports Compliance aid, health & safety training, vocational modules via FNB ECD Care Community.
• Complements national R10 billion ECD funding; fills the gap where governmental implementation lags.

The Dlala Play Programme stands out as a dynamic embodiment of DO MORE FOUNDATION’s vision: nurturing the whole child. By combining joyful play, educator empowerment, and robust support systems, it reinforces our belief that every child deserves a strong, loving, and developmentally enriching start to life.