March, recognised as Human Rights Month, is a time to reflect on the fundamental rights of all South Africans.

For Cotlands, it serves as a reminder that every child has the right to play. Yet, more than a million young children in South Africa still lack access to early learning programmes.

The early years of a child’s life are crucial. During this period, rapid brain development takes place as neural connections (synapses) form through stimulation and play-based activities. Without access to these essential early learning opportunities, many children are left behind before they even begin formal schooling.

In response to this challenge, Cotlands hosted its inaugural Run to Play event during Human Rights Month, in partnership with the Johannesburg Zoo. The occasion also marked a special milestone for the zoo, celebrating 122 years of wildlife and conservation.

The Run to Play event attracted 731 enthusiastic runners and walkers, all committed to supporting children’s right to play. Participants from across Johannesburg united in a shared purpose of taking meaningful steps to raise awareness and help create brighter futures for vulnerable children.

Corporate teams, including Balwin Properties, Bastion Steppers, Digby Wells Environmental, Evermarc, and Front Runner, demonstrated the power of collective action through their participation and support. Cotlands extends its heartfelt gratitude to the running and walking community for championing this important cause.

Speaking on the significance of the event, chief executive officer of Cotlands, Dr Monica Stach, emphasised: “Play is not a luxury, it is a fundamental right and a critical part of early childhood development. Through initiatives like Run to Play, we are raising awareness and mobilising support to ensure that more children have access to quality early learning opportunities. Our goal is to expand our Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) hubs across the country, bringing essential services closer to the communities that need them most.”

Cotlands’ innovative ECCE hub model serves as a centre of excellence, offering:

• Early learning support for children from birth to three years.

• Guidance for parents on stimulation, nutrition, and development.

• Access to sensory play activities and age-appropriate toys.

• Toy library services for under-resourced communities.

• Training for ECD practitioners to strengthen skills and improve the quality of early learning.

These hubs are designed to give babies and toddlers the best possible start in life, supporting optimal brain development and preparing them for success in formal schooling.

Funds raised through the Run to Play event will go towards providing educational toys and early learning resources to communities where they are needed most.

Call to action

Cotlands invites corporates and partners to join this mission. To support the expansion of ECCE hubs and help protect every child’s right to play and learn, please get in touch at marketing@cotlands.org