A day of play and possibility

The Magic of Reimagined Toys
Every child deserves play—a simple truth often lost in the rush of daily life. On 11 June, as the world marks the International Day of Play, the vibrant joy of childhood was brought vividly to life in Jessore, Bangladesh, through an inspiring initiative by Aarong. Turning pre-loved toys into fresh moments of wonder, Aarong transformed a routine toy donation into an act of creative generosity.

Play: A Right, Not a Privilege
International Day of Play, established by the United Nations and deeply connected to BRAC’s pioneering initiatives, champions the critical role of play in children’s holistic development. Guided by this year’s theme, “Choose Play—Every Day,” the day serves as a powerful call to action for communities worldwide. Dr Erum Marium, Executive Director of BRAC Institute of Educational Development (BRAC IED), has been at the forefront of this mission, developing globally acclaimed Play Labs and Humanitarian Play Labs that centre play within learning, healing, and childhood growth.

Breathing New Life into Old Toys
At the Ayesha Abed Foundation in Jessore, Aarong and BRAC hosted a heart-warming ceremony, gifting toys to children from artisan families. Earlier in the year, BRAC and Aarong organised a thoughtful donation drive across their Dhaka offices, rescuing discarded toys destined for disposal. Each pre-loved toy, carefully upcycled and beautifully repackaged, began its second life as another child’s treasured companion.
Children arrived hand-in-hand with their parents, eyes sparkling with curiosity as they chose their favourite toys. Each toy became more than just an object; it represented sustainability, care, and human connection, bridging generations through playful moments.

A Celebration of Childhood
As the ceremony closed with laughter and a cheerful group photo, Aarong’s modest gesture symbolised something profound—a celebration not just of play, but of childhood itself. The smiles captured in that joyful moment served as a poignant reminder that play, kindness, and environmental responsibility can together shape a warmer, brighter world for our youngest citizens.