The Climbing Frame Project at Siluncedo Daycare

Before the later comprehensive renovation, the Siluncedo Daycare in the township of Imizamo Yethu in Cape Town was already part of an earlier project. The daycare is an important point of contact for many families in the neighborhood and provides daily care for around 100 children. The team consists of dedicated educators and committed volunteers.

Im Jahr 2017 During 2017, it became clear that the outdoor area offered hardly any safe play opportunities for the children. Existing play equipment such as slides and swings was heavily damaged and could no longer be used for safety reasons. Especially in a setting where children urgently need safe spaces to play, move, and explore, this was a significant challenge. In close coordination with the local teaching staff—who best understand the children’s day-to-day needs—the idea emerged to install a new climbing frame. This project was particularly close to our hearts, as I had the chance to witness daily how much the children missed having play structures. In many daycares in Germany, such equipment is taken for granted and plays an important role in supporting both motor skills and social development.

To improve the situation, a fundraising campaign was launched in May 2017 to finance a new climbing frame. The idea emerged during one of our visits on site and in close consultation with the local educational team, who had a clear understanding of the children's daily needs. Thanks to the donations received, a new climbing frame was installed on the kindergarten grounds by the company 'Tuff Playstructures' on June 19, 2017. It has been in regular use ever since and is very popular among the children

Because the fundraising campaign brought in more money than initially estimated, we worked together with the educators to decide how the additional funds could be used meaningfully. Since it was wintertime in South Africa and many children did not have warm clothing, jackets, trousers, socks, and other garments were purchased. In addition, warm fleece blankets for naptime and first aid kits, which were previously unavailable, could be provided.

This project marked the beginning of our long-term connection with Siluncedo Daycare. The close and trusting collaboration with the local team laid the foundation for the comprehensive renovation of the entire facility that followed later on.