The “School Readiness Play Program” uses structured play, games, and play-based learning to develop the cognitive, social, emotional, and communication skills of young children, helping them transition confidently from preschool to Grade 1.

The School Readiness Play Program, implemented by the Open Tree Foundation (TOF), addresses the challenges faced by young children transitioning from preschool to formal primary education, particularly children from underserved communities in Mumbai. Many children enter Grade 1 without having developed essential cognitive, social, emotional, and communication skills needed to adapt successfully to a structured classroom environment. With support from IDS, the project uses structured play-based learning to prepare children for school. Through games and carefully designed activities, children develop skills such as pattern recognition, memory, communication, collaboration, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and the ability to share and work with others. The program currently operates across 12 Anganwadis (preschool centers) in Mumbai, reaching approximately 360 children. Rather than treating play as simply recreational, the initiative integrates purposeful play into daily learning so that children can develop important school-readiness skills in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Teachers receive curated play materials along with training, coaching, and ongoing support to strengthen their ability to use play-based teaching methods. The program includes regular coaching visits and twice-yearly workshops, helping teachers create play-centered learning environments and effectively integrate games and activities into their daily sessions. Early results show improvements in children's pattern recognition and memory, while teachers have also observed significant changes in social and emotional behavior. Children who previously struggled with sharing are increasingly able to collaborate with others, while shy children are becoming more comfortable communicating and asking questions. The project is designed as a three-year initiative focused on improving early childhood education and ensuring that children enter primary school with greater confidence and the cognitive and social skills needed to succeed. At the same time, it equips Anganwadi teachers with practical tools and knowledge to make learning more engaging, interactive, and effective.