A $97 million pledge from the LEGO Foundation aims to expand play-based learning across conflict-affected regions, targeting 5 million children over five years. This page breaks down what the funding changes, where programs will roll out first, what evidence supports play-based recovery, and what parents and educators can expect in the near future.
The grant funds expanded play-based learning programs run by the IRC, designed to support learning continuity, resilience, and recovery for children whose schooling has been disrupted by conflict. By using structured play to build literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills, the initiative aims to improve engagement and retention, helping millions of children regain a sense of normalcy and progress.
The initiative is set to roll out over five years across East Africa and the Middle East, with initial expansion focusing on IRC-led learning activities in conflict-affected areas. The first phase prioritizes locations with the highest disruption to schooling, where play-based approaches can be integrated into existing rescue and recovery efforts to reach up to millions of children.
Play-based learning has been shown to support cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being, particularly in disrupted learning contexts. In crisis zones, playful, hands-on activities help children process trauma, stay engaged in education, and build foundational skills, which can translate into better school readiness and progression once normal schooling resumes.
Over the next five years, expect expanded access to play-centered curricula, teacher training in play-based methodologies, and more resilient learning spaces in crisis areas. The partnership aims to reach about 5 million children, with ongoing monitoring to refine approaches and share best practices for crisis education globally.
Success will be tracked through child enrollment and attendance in program activities, improvements in literacy and numeracy benchmarks, and indicators of social-emotional well-being. Regular program evaluations and field reports will help determine reach, impact, and areas for scaling or adjustment.
Community involvement—including families, teachers, and local leaders—helps ensure programs fit local needs. Community feedback will guide implementation, while local educators receive training to sustain play-based learning beyond the initial grant period.
Many Syrian returnees cannot access proper healthcare. Urgent action is required for Syria’s health system to recover.