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Play to Learn" is an initiative led by the LEGO Foundation in partnership with Sesame Workshop, BRAC, the International Rescue Committee, and NYU Global TIES for Children. It aims to use the benefits of play to provide early learning opportunities to children and caregivers affected by conflict or crisis situations. Under this program BRAC aims to evaluating the effectiveness of a home-visiting and group-based program in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The program is being designed to engage both mothers and fathers who are caregivers. The evaluation will focus on the benefits of involving fathers in caregiver-focused interventions. Our research will specifically look at the additional impact of father home visits and groups (led by male Rohingya facilitators or volunteers) on father engagement (e.g. activities with their children), perceptions of learning and play, attitudes, and well-being, beyond what is achieved through home visits with mothers alone.
This study highlights the crucial role that fathers play in their children's early development and beyond. It demonstrates the importance of fathers bonding with their children, understanding how children cope with stress in challenging situations, and using play to support children's development. The study also aims to promote fathers' wellbeing by helping them improve their emotional literacy, strengthen their relationships with their children and spouses, and adopt responsive caregiving practices. The ARCED foundation is actively involved in collecting data and evaluating these practices to support their effectiveness.