Cotlands, a play-based early childhood development (ECD) programme, has announced that it has launched its inaugural Run to Play fun run-and-walk. To be held at the James and Ethel Gray Park in Birdhaven, the event blends fitness, fun and purpose to create a real change for South Africa's children.
Taking place on Saturday, 22 November, the event offers 2km, 5km and 8km distances, making it suitable for runners, walkers, families and children, says the programme.
The Run to Play is an advocacy movement about raising awareness of the early learning crisis in our country. There are 58% of South African children who are not enrolled in any early learning programme, and we need to advocate for the rights of our children to access quality play-based early learning. Every step a participant takes helps to ignite a child's potential through the power of play. All proceeds from the race will go towards Cotlands' work in delivering access to play-based early learning programmes through early learning playgroups and toy libraries, adds the programme.
"Whether you run, jog or walk, you are helping Cotlands stand up for the rights of every child in South Africa to access quality ECD," says Nozizwe Dladla-Qwabe, Cotlands Acting CEO. "By entering our race, you are helping to give more children the opportunity to thrive through Cotland's toy libraries and early learning playgroups. We run these impactful programmes all across the country in marginalised communities where children need it the most."
Participants can look forward to a pop-up toy library, children's entertainment, music and food stalls. It is a day when all participants come together to create a brighter future for more children. All ages are welcome, and costumes, colour and creativity are encouraged, says the programme.
Cotlands also invites companies to enter corporate teams as part of an inspiring year-end team-building experience. It is the perfect way to close off the year with purpose, celebrate your team and give back to those who need it most. By sponsoring or participating, your company will be helping to expand access to early learning opportunities in under-resourced communities, concludes the programme.
Individuals are encouraged to register here.
For more information, visit www.cotlands.org. You can also follow Cotlands on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor.