An exploratory study of caregivers’ and facilitators’ experiences and perceptions of participating in the Play Mat program in Mpumuza, Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu, Natal.

Abstract

This study sought to explore caregivers’ and facilitators’ experiences of participating in the Play Mat Program, a caregiver-based intervention in Mpumuza, Pietermaritzburg. A qualitative design was followed, the sample was made up of caregivers and facilitators who participated in the Play Mat Program in 2017. This study aimed to understand the factors that made it easy or difficult for caregivers to facilitate play in the home environment, and furthermore, to determine how the program was received in the context in which it was implemented. The findings of this research revealed that the structure and implementation of the program influenced the success and sustainability of the intervention. The practical demonstrations, the provision of resources and evidence of development were factors that influenced caregivers’ investment in the program. Similarly, these factors made it easy for caregivers to facilitate play in the home environment. Moreover, these factors reduced barriers such as illiteracy and low levels of educational attainment. The most prominent challenge related to the program had to do with finding time and energy to play given the many roles and responsibilities of women in society. This research confirmed that there is value in educating caregivers on the importance of early childhood development (ECD). More importantly, this research highlighted the need to empower and upskill caregivers so that they can sustain play independently in the home environment. It is recommended that interventions focus on developing caregivers’ capacity and confidence so that they can facilitate play and learning in the home environment.