Celebrating International Children’s Day through play

On 1 June 2026, children across four provinces in Laos marked International Children’s Day by celebrating the opening of brand-new playgrounds at their schools. The Local development programme provided play equipment to 225 target schools across Bokeo, Vientiane, Bolikhamxay and Khammouan provinces. These new facilities aim to create more engaging and child-friendly learning environments through play.

The provision of playground equipment aims to create a more engaging and child-friendly learning environment for early childhood and primary school pupils. Learning through play is widely recognised as one of the most important elements of child development, helping children to build cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills in a natural and enjoyable way.

The new playground facilities encourage children to participate in active play, teamwork and creative exploration, which contribute to their overall growth and well-being. The playgrounds also help motivate children to attend school more actively, creating a positive and enjoyable learning atmosphere.

Parents, teachers and community members have expressed their happiness and appreciation for the playgrounds, as they provide children with a safe and stimulating space in which to play and learn. Children are especially excited to use the new equipment, and many eagerly spend their break times playing together, building friendships and developing social skills.

During the handover ceremonies, counterparts from the Finance Department of the Province, the Provincial Education and Sports Service and the District Education and Sports Bureau delivered speeches expressing their appreciation and gratitude for the support provided by the Local development programme. They highlighted the importance of improving education and creating better learning environments for children. Representatives also emphasised their commitment to strengthening collaboration and continuing joint efforts to further improve the quality of education and child development in target communities.

By integrating play into the learning environment, schools can better support holistic development and improve children’s readiness for lifelong learning. This initiative reflects the continued commitment of the Local development programme to enhancing the quality of education and promoting inclusive learning opportunities for children in target provinces across Laos. For many pupils, the new playgrounds are more than just places to play. They are symbols of care, community and opportunity.

As laughter and excitement filled the air, the celebration highlighted the importance of investing in children’s well-being and ensuring that every child has the chance to enjoy a happy, healthy childhood.

The Local development programme aims to promote sustainable, inclusive and resilient development outcomes across targeted sectors. It is co-financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Switzerland and jointly implemented by the Lao Ministry of Finance (formerly the Ministry of Planning and Investment) and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.