| Active Learning Libraries - South Africa (ALL-SA) |
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| Wednesday, 29 November 2006 | |
  ALL-SA is a non-profit organisation operating, since 1993, as the umbrella organisation for Active Learning Toy Libraries in South Africa. Through ALL-SA's National Resource & Training Centre, we promote the use of play materials for early stimulation, fun, relief from stress and strengthening the family unit. ALL-SA has developed a unique, outcomes-based approach to play materials in early childhood development (birth-5yrs) and to support children with barriers to learning in Foundation Phase (6-9yrs). It is widely accepted by professionals that stimulation in the first 3 years of a child's life is essential in helping children achieve their potential. Toy Libraries are a cost-effective intervention providing community access to and advice on a well thought out selection of play materials covering all skill areas. ALL-SA's projects are based on our belief that WE CAN BUILD OUR NATION THROUGH PLAY!
In 2005, ALL-SA reached 4200+ children from the Hillbrow area and surrounds, Children's Homes, pre-schools, children with disabilities, children that have suffered various forms of abuse and children that are infected / affected by HIV/Aids. These children enjoyed play sessions at ALL-SA's "Come & Play" Toy Library or Toy Bag Outreach Programmes. ALL-SA's "Come & Play" Toy Library participated in the 2005 Children's Day celebration in partnership with GPAC and NPOs such as Childline, Sunshine Association for Disabled Children and Teddy Bear Clinic for Abused Children. We hosted play sessions for +/- 600 vulnerable children. Stats Training: 89 persons ALL-SA's Wish List "Come & Play" Toy Library Children come and play at our toy library on a daily basis – most of the children are from disadvantaged circumstances or are suffering from serious illnesses.
Items required: It is very important for us to keep the dress-up clothes in our make-believe area clean, hygienic and readily available for everyone - with a selection as large as the children's imaginations.
- Computer Area A company very generously donated 4 used computers last year but we need the following before we can include them in the Toy Library: - 4 computer tables / workstations – space is limited so pref. tables that can fit together - Special Events We hold special fun days for invited groups of disadvantaged children at Christmas and Easter. The children thoroughly enjoy these days and, for many, it is the first time they have the chance to experience these celebrations. Each child gets a goodie bag with: - a muffin / cupcake Any assistance (financial or donated goods) with making these Special Events something for the children to remember is greatly appreciated. Wish List for Time / Skills / Expertise: Volunteer Request "Come & Play" Toy Library We would be very grateful for assistance with: Toy Repair: ALL-SA can provide the basic materials needed to repair most toys but it is time consuming for our staff. Your DIY / craft skills and time on a general basis would be very helpful in getting the toys back into service. General Maintenance: is there is a handyman out there that can help us one day a month with odd jobs? Although the building was designed with children in mind, some things are a little out-dated / in need of repair and need some help to get back to their child-friendly beginnings. We have bought 2 doors and need assistance to install them in the children's toilets. The materials needed cost about R3000.00. Helping us to return the Toy Library to a completely child-friendly space will empower the children to do basic tasks on their own. The confidence and independence they gain from this is invaluable. Graphic Designing: Expertise & guidance from a graphic designer for various pamphlets, posters, newsletter would be very welcome. We create these documents ourselves at the moment but fresh ideas and useful tips from a professional would be very helpful. IT Skills: Computer and Network maintenance, setting up of databases – we need your skills to keep us in with 21st century technology. Computer problems don't arise often but we would benefit greatly from an IT expert providing input one day a month to ensure that we utilise this resource to its fullest potential. ALL-SA shares IT hints and tips with our Members around the country so your skills & time can have a national impact. |
- Make-Believe Area
– Toys
This is the powerful story of the author's struggle with Multiple Sclerosis and how a healer's unusual prescription of mindful altruism - to 'give away 29 gifts in 29 days' - ignited her energy, her happiness, and invited more abundance into her life.
