In a world where technology and structured routines often dominate childhoods, Bhutan has taken a bold and necessary step to reimagine parenting. The “Scaling Up of Playful Parenting in Bhutan” (SCPPB) programme is a trailblazing initiative that underscores a simple yet profound truth: play is not just child’s play—it is a cornerstone of emotional, social, and cognitive development.
This message was powerfully conveyed at an evidence exchange event yesterday, where the findings of a comprehensive study conducted by FHI 360 (2020–2024) were unveiled. The research provides compelling evidence that playful parenting is transformative, fostering stronger parent-child bonds and equipping children with life skills that serve as the foundation for a well-rounded future.
Why Play Matters
Playful parenting taps into a fundamental human truth: children learn best when they are engaged, curious, and joyful. The programme encourages caregivers to embrace both structured and unstructured play, shifting the paradigm from traditional, authoritarian parenting to a more interactive and nurturing approach.
Health Secretary Pemba Wangchuk aptly summed it up: “Play is not just for fun; it is fundamental.” Indeed, neuroscience supports this claim, revealing that play stimulates brain development, particularly in the critical early years from birth to age three. Through play, children develop problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, and social competence—traits that are vital for thriving in a complex world.
Bringing Play to Every Corner of Bhutan
One of the most remarkable aspects of SCPPB is its reach. Launched in 2019, the programme leverages Bhutan’s robust network of health clinics to bring playful parenting even to the most remote villages. Health professionals are now equipped to train parents in making toys from everyday materials, integrating playful activities into their daily interactions.
This approach not only democratizes access to early childhood development but also normalizes the idea that caregiving is a shared responsibility. However, as the study highlights, there is still room for improvement in engaging male caregivers, who tend to attend fewer sessions and prefer shorter formats.
The programme has wisely adapted by condensing its sessions and introducing ongoing monitoring to refine its delivery. This flexibility is crucial for ensuring that the initiative remains inclusive and impactful.
Supporting the Unsung Heroes
At the heart of SCPPB’s success are the health assistants who deliver the programme on the ground. These frontline workers are instrumental in driving the message home, and the study rightly emphasizes the need for continued investment in their training, supervision, and recognition. Regular refresher courses, coaching, and performance incentives are not just desirable—they are essential for sustaining the programme’s momentum.
A Model for the World
Bhutan’s participation in this global initiative, alongside Serbia, Rwanda, Zambia, and Guatemala, positions it as a leader in rethinking early childhood care. The support of Save the Children Bhutan, the Ministry of Health, and funding from the LEGO Foundation has created a model that other countries can learn from.
The evidence is clear: playful parenting works. But for this programme to achieve its full potential, stakeholders must remain committed to scaling its reach, refining its delivery, and championing the critical role of play in child development.
As Bhutan continues its journey, it serves as a beacon for nations grappling with how best to nurture the next generation. Play may seem simple, but its impact is profound—and it is high time we took it seriously.
