# The Opentree Foundation - India’s Leading NGO for Play and Play-Based Learning > The Opentree Foundation (TOF) is a Mumbai-based non-profit using play and play-based learning to empower children from marginalised communities. Through its Conscious Play® approach, we build life skills and emotional resilience in children, helping them grow into well-rounded adults. Our Life Skills Play Programmes transform classrooms into joyful spaces for learning and growth. ## Posts - [Protect Play, Protect Childhood — District-Level Roundtable, Ahilyanagar](https://opentree.org/protect-play-protect-childhood-district-level-roundtable-ahilyanagar/) - [From Classrooms to National Conversations: Contributing to India's National Dialogue on Play-Based Learning](https://opentree.org/from-classrooms-to-national-conversations-contributing-to-indias-national-dialogue-on-play-based-learning/): For over two decades, The Opentree Foundation has worked towards a vision of integrating play-based learning into India’s public education system. While the National Education Policy 2020 increasingly recognises the importance of joyful and experiential learning, lasting change depends on something much bigger: an ecosystem of educators, practitioners, children, institutions, and government working together to […] - [When Young Minds Lead, Play Finds Its Way](https://opentree.org/when-young-minds-lead-play-finds-its-way/): HOPE 2026 On February 28th, The Opentree Foundation was represented at the HOPE fete hosted by Dhirubhai Ambani International School. Five student Toybankers from DAIS hosted a small Play space within the larger festival, inviting teachers, parents, and students to pause and engage with simple board games. Brainvita and Jenga quickly drew people in. What […] - [Play Summit 2025: Finding Play](https://opentree.org/play-summit-2025-finding-play/): Why the Play Summit Matters: A Note from Our Co-Founders, Shweta Chari and Vikram Nerurkar The Opentree Foundation’s Play Summit was born from a question that has followed us for over two decades: what happens when Play is kept out of children’s lives — and what becomes possible when we choose to bring it back […] - [Rediscovering Play: Insights Shaping Play Summit 2025](https://opentree.org/rediscovering-play-insights-shaping-play-summit-2025/): As we look ahead to Play Summit 2025, themed Finding Play, our global roundtable — Rediscovering Play: Stories of Transformation — set the perfect stage for a deeper, collective exploration of how play lives in classrooms, communities, and everyday moments. This conversation was not just a reflection on what play means, but an invitation to […] - [Annual Report 2024-2025: Twenty Years of Play, Joy, and Change](https://opentree.org/annual-report-2024-2025-twenty-years-of-play-joy-and-change/): Click here to access Annual Report 2024-2025 Twenty years ago, The Opentree Foundation began with a simple belief — that Play is not a luxury, but a necessity. What started in 2004 with one small group of children has grown into a movement transforming learning across 12 districts in Maharashtra. Through partnerships with 600+ under-resourced […] - [Play Summit 2025](https://opentree.org/play-summit-2025-2/): Play Summit 2025: Finding Play 🎟️ Register Here 💡 Why Play Summit The Play Summit was launched in 2024 with a single vision: to build a thriving ecosystem for Play in India. For two decades, TOF has embedded Play into classrooms, communities, and systems serving children. Yet, Play remains missing from most policies and practices. […] - [Volunteering for Change: A Day of Play with Purpose](https://opentree.org/volunteering-for-change-a-day-of-play-with-purpose/): On September 20th, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at The Opentree Foundation’s (TOF) Play with Purpose event at one of their partner schools in Mumbai. This experience stands out as one of the most meaningful and compassionate events I have ever been part of. I was drawn to TOF after exploring its philosophy […] - [The invisible stress children face in urban India, and how play helps](https://opentree.org/the-invisible-stress-children-face-in-urban-india-and-how-play-helps/): “Tss-tss- tss-pshhhh” — a long whistle from the pressure cooker next door breaks the silence at dawn. In a one-room apartment, a child wakes and folds away the cloth they slept on so the kitchen can be set up. Outside, rickshaws honk and vendors call out prices. After a hurried breakfast, the walk to school […] - [Like Father, Like Son: From TOF’s Inventory to Everyday Play and Learning](https://opentree.org/like-father-like-son-from-tofs-inventory-to-everyday-play-and-learning/): At The Opentree Foundation (TOF), play doesn’t just live in classrooms and play centres, it also finds its way into homes, into homes of its team members, shaping families and children in powerful ways. For Amol Kedase, who has been part of TOF’s inventory team since 2021, work is more than packing, dispatching, and tracking […] - [Building Childhoods Through Play: Celebrating 21 Years Together](https://opentree.org/building-childhoods-through-play-celebrating-21-years-together/): On August 23, 2025, The Opentree Foundation’s flagship project, Toybank, celebrated its 21st Foundation Day, at SS Sahney School, Khar, marking over two decades of championing play as an essential part of every child’s life. The milestone was celebrated in the most fitting way possible: by bringing the joy of games, stories, and creativity to […] - [From Conversations to Connection: Fueling Our Playful Vision](https://opentree.org/from-conversations-to-connection-fueling-our-playful-vision/): At The Opentree Foundation (TOF), we’ve always believed that the work of building happier, healthier childhoods cannot be done alone. It takes deep partnerships, collective vision, and people who believe, not just from afar, but who show up, sit beside us, and walk the journey with us. One such person is David Millary. David has […] - [IDOP 2025: Choosing Play, Every Day to Reclaim Childhood](https://opentree.org/idop-2025-choosing-play-every-day-to-reclaim-childhood/): Click here to access the IDOP 2025 Roundtable report  This International Day of Play, The Opentree Foundation hosted a powerful roundtable discussion titled ‘Choose Play, Everyday’, bringing together global voices to tackle a quiet crisis: the disappearance of play from children’s lives. Moderated by Smarinita Shetty (India Development Review), the panel featured Dr Sarah Aiono […] - [Playful Learning: Class 8 Students Discover Power of Play Through Game Design](https://opentree.org/playful-learning-class-8-students-discover-power-of-play-through-game-design/): Class 8 students of Govind Nagar English School in Malad recently wrapped up their academic year with a playful but powerful experience that demonstrated how deeply play supports learning and skill-building, and what the students had learned through play sessions.  The previous play sessions have exposed them to different kinds of games and got them […] - [Cooking Up Skills Through Play With Little Chefs](https://opentree.org/cooking-up-skills-through-play-with-little-chefs/): It all began with a simple craving — a craving for pizza. But this time, it wasn’t just about eating it. It was about making it. Together. The idea sparked during playtime, as the children chatted about their favourite foods, and just like that, they decided to make their own pizza and the game was […] - [Play, Practice, Checkmate: How Play Sessions Sparked Mansi’s Rise to State-Level Chess](https://opentree.org/play-practice-checkmate-how-play-sessions-sparked-mansis-rise-to-state-level-chess/): Mansi (name changed) is a Class 7 student at the Zilla Parishad Primary School in Wanwada, Latur. Mansi lives with her siblings, grandparents and parents, who are farmers. While she is average in academics, she has a keen interest in extracurricular activities. In June 2024, when we introduced play sessions in her school, she was […] - [How Play Fosters Inclusivity, Builds Confidence, and Connects Every Child](https://opentree.org/power-of-play-helps-child-with-disabilities-build-friendship-confidence/): It was just another day at Deonar Colony, where a Toybank play session was underway. The room was buzzing with excitement and laughter, children busy in discussions, strategising, putting their best ideas forward on how to play the games to the best of their abilities. Among these children was Afzal, a determined Class 7 student. […] - [Bridging the School Readiness Gap: New Play Programme launched in 65 Mumbai Anganwadis](https://opentree.org/bridging-the-school-readiness-gap-new-play-programme-launched-in-65-mumbai-anganwadis/): “School readiness is not just about recognising letters or numbers – it is also about building behavioural and social skills in children. Play has a significant role in children’s development.” – Sharad Kurhade, Child Development Project Officer  In India, the transition from early childhood education to formal schooling remains a critical juncture for children, particularly […] - [Annual Report 2023-24: Resilience, growth and Play](https://opentree.org/annual-report-2023-24-building-resilience-growth-through-play/): Click here to access the Annual Report 2023-2024 At The Opentree Foundation, we are proud to be pioneers in advocating for play as a vital catalyst for creating a better world. In a complex environment where many children feel unwanted and abandoned, play emerges as a cornerstone of healthy human development, offering essential opportunities for […] - [Art, Imagination, and Play: A Vibrant Day at Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025](https://opentree.org/art-imagination-and-play-a-vibrant-day-at-kala-ghoda-arts-festival-2025/): “It was inspiring to see how freely they translated their thoughts into art, reminding me that imagination has no limits when given the right space to grow.” – Grade 11 ABWA CAS volunteer On January 29, 2025, we partnered with Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), to co-create a vibrant and inclusive play session at the […] - [Universal Legal Runs for Every Child’s Right to Play at Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025](https://opentree.org/universal-legal-runs-for-every-childs-right-to-play-at-tata-mumbai-marathon-2025/): On January 19, 2025, Universal Legal proudly participated in the Tata Mumbai Marathon, supporting The Opentree Foundation and its mission to ensure every child’s Right to Play. The Opentree Foundation believes in the transformative power of play — fostering creativity, emotional resilience, and social skills that are essential for a child’s holistic development. A long-time […] - [Child Wellbeing Through Play: Insights from Our Play Seminar](https://opentree.org/play-seminar-child-wellbeing-through-play/): On December 14, 2025, The Opentree Foundation (TOF) hosted a Play Seminar – Child Wellbeing Through Play at the Armaity Desai Hall at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. It was attended by over 100 engaging, enthusiastic play supporters from diverse spaces of academia, education, urban design, psychology, philanthropy and the social sector. It […] - [TOF's Roundtable: Thriving through Play](https://opentree.org/tofs-roundtable-thriving-through-play/): Since 2004, The Opentree Foundation has worked towards empowering children to grow into well-rounded adulthoods through Play. Over the last two decades, our journey has made the following abundantly clear: The lack of play is a critical, complex problem There is a strong need to initiate meaningful dialogue and action to address this problem. As […] - [Using Play to Better our World](https://opentree.org/using-play-to-better-our-world/):   As the American Academy of Pediatrics’ 2018 clinical report highlights, “The most powerful way children learn isn’t only in classrooms or libraries but on playgrounds and in playrooms.” Yet, the pressures of academic expectations and screen time have robbed many children of this fundamental tool for growth. Play is more than just an escape […] - [TOF Turns 20: Volunteers engage in playful activities](https://opentree.org/tof-turns-20-volunteers-engage-in-playful-activities/): On September 21, 2024, over 100 volunteers came together to distribute games to over 1,000 children and conduct fun activities at a school in Khar. The day marked 20 years of The Opentree Foundation, and was filled with learning, games, but most of all, PLAY! We asked one of our volunteers to write a few […] - [‘Play is an integral part of growing up’: What our volunteers have to say](https://opentree.org/play-is-an-integral-part-of-growing-up-what-our-volunteers-have-to-say/): “I got an opportunity to interact with children at schools and community centres and learned how play encouraged curiosity and exploration. Their cheerfulness and the smile on their faces when they could figure out the games provided to them truly brought joy to me as a volunteer. It was an outlet for them to understand […] - [‘Playworker workshops help us make classrooms more playful’](https://opentree.org/playworker-workshops-help-us-make-classrooms-more-playful/): The workshop helped shape my perspective that every child is equal and has the right to play, and it is our responsibility to ensure that play remains an essential component in every child’s life.  In a four-day workshop conducted for The Opentree Foundation’s Outreach Play Workers (OPWs), we spoke about what play is, why we […] - [Inspired by sessions, Class 7 student incorporates play during free periods](https://opentree.org/inspired-by-sessions-class-7-student-incorporates-play-during-free-periods/): Rohit (name changed) is a Class 7 student and attends the MPS CBSE Aziz Baug School in Chembur, Mumbai. He is also the class monitor, who helps maintain discipline when the teacher steps out. According to Rohit’s peers, he was known for being critical as a monitor and he was also very strict. If he […] - [Class 5 students develop collaboration skills through play](https://opentree.org/class-5-students-develop-collaboration-skills-through-play-2/): Research shows that play has a transformative impact on children’s holistic growth, equipping them with the skills and mindsets needed to grow into well-rounded adults in an ever-changing, increasingly volatile and uncertain world. At Toybank – Development through Play, we are committed to building critical life skills in at-risk children by increasing their access to […] - [Play helps Class 2 student build confidence, improve language skills](https://opentree.org/play-helps-class-2-student-build-confidence-improve-language-skills/): Divya is a Class 2 student, who lives in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district in a joint family. Her Mother is a domestic worker, while her father and uncle work as labourers. The children Toybank – Development through Play works with come from vulnerable communities and do not have access to quality play.  When Divya first came […] - [Mothers, play and participation: A story from rural Maharashtra](https://opentree.org/mothers-play-and-participation-a-story-from-rural-maharashtra/): This competition was a reminder to not let play disappear from our lives. Parents play a pivotal role in children’s development. Yet, not many parents have the leisure of playing, in particular Mothers, given the burden of domestic responsibilities and gendered social norms. However, play is and should be for everyone. From improving parent-child and […] - [Class 5 students develop collaboration skills through play](https://opentree.org/class-5-students-develop-collaboration-skills-through-play/): Research shows that play has a transformative impact on children’s holistic growth, equipping them with the skills and mindsets needed to grow into well-rounded adults in an ever-changing, increasingly volatile and uncertain world. At Toybank – Development through Play, we are committed to building critical life skills in at-risk children by increasing their access to […] - [Play sessions let me witness growth in children, says Grade 11 volunteer](https://opentree.org/play-sessions-let-me-witness-growth-in-children-says-grade-11-volunteer/): While we have always been exposed to play as a fundamental need in our lives, children from vulnerable communities lack this approach. It has been a huge learning and an incredible experience to witness the impact of play in the lives of children from marginalised communities, during my internship with The Opentree Foundation.  The organisation […] - [Volunteer Speaks: ‘Play is a fundamental right, every child must have access to quality play’](https://opentree.org/volunteer-speaks-play-is-a-fundamental-right-every-child-must-have-access-to-quality-play/): Every child deserves the Right to Play as a fundamental part of their upbringing. Let us all advocate for playful growing years for every child in India. We were at my child’s annual school fest; and my little one felt overwhelmed by the noise and choices around. So, we decided to take a walk around […] - [Play sessions enabled 9-year-old Aarohi to work in groups](https://opentree.org/play-sessions-enabled-9-year-old-aarohi-to-work-in-groups/): Nine-year-old Aarohi (name changed) studies in Class 3 at a school in Renapur in Maharashtra’s Latur district. Her Mother works as a daily wage labourer and also supports the family financially. In conversation with our Programme Officer(PO), the teacher mentioned that Aarohi enjoys play sessions, but she always plays by herself and does not mingle […] - [Through Play, Sanjay learned to collaborate with his classmates](https://opentree.org/through-play-sanjay-learned-to-collaborate-with-his-classmates/): Sanjay (name changed) is a 12-year-old studying at the Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya in Dahisar. He resides in the nearby informal settlements of Ketkipada. Our Outreach Play Worker had been observing Sanjay during play sessions and noticed that he usually played by himself and did not interact with others. Whenever the Outreach Play Worker asked […] - [Play helps teacher create safe space for Class 1 student](https://opentree.org/play-helps-teacher-create-safe-space-for-class-1-student/): Ajay (name changed) belongs to a tribal community in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district and lives with his parents and siblings. His parents are daily wage labourers and often struggle to earn a living. The situation in his home, too, is not very pleasant, as his father is an alcoholic and often has fights with the Mother. […] - [Team workshops: Learning, growth, fun, dance, but above all PLAY!](https://opentree.org/team-workshops-learning-growth-fun-dance-but-above-all-play/): As we enter our 20th year and continue our journey of scale and impact, the key management team at The Opentree Foundation took a step back to acknowledge each other’s efforts and discuss ways to further the cause of Right to Play.  In a series of workshops, packed with fun and learning, our team participated […] - [Hope 2024: DAIS students become a voice for Right to Play](https://opentree.org/hope-2024-dais-students-become-a-voice-for-right-to-play/): On February 24, we witnessed play in all its forms at Hope 2024, the CAS (Creativity. Activity. Service.) fete held at the Dhirubhai Ambani International School (DAIS) in Mumbai. The annual fete organised by the school’s team and students served as a platform for various NGOs to spread awareness about their cause and raise funds.  […] - [How playing in a team builds leadership skills](https://opentree.org/how-playing-in-a-team-builds-leadership-skills/): It was an exciting Monday for students of Class 6 at the Priyadarshini Vidyamandir in Kandivli, Mumbai, as their morning began with Play. Students were split into groups and given games at random. One such group included five girls who were overjoyed when they received Mechanix and decided to construct something of their choice. As […] - [Kala Ghoda Festival 2024: ‘Volunteering with Toybank a fulfilling experience’](https://opentree.org/kala-ghoda-2024-volunteering-with-toybank-a-fulfilling-experience/): On January 26, our school, Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), collaborated with Toybank – Development through Play to celebrate play in all forms at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2024. We conducted a t-shirt painting activity with 30 children from the Gilder Lane Municipal School, Mumbai Central.  We were split into different groups and were […] - [Through Play, 10-year-old explores creativity, develops problem-solving skills](https://opentree.org/through-play-10-year-old-explores-creativity-develops-problem-solving-skills/): Naseem (name changed) is a 10-year-old studying at the MHB School in Malad (West). When Toybank’s Outreach Officer (OO) went to Naseem’s class, the teacher mentioned that he was disruptive in class. The OO also noticed that it was difficult for Naseem to pay attention in class and he deliberately disturbed them. He would not […] - [Power of Play: Class 8 student uses creativity to construct car, set it in motion](https://opentree.org/power-of-play-class-8-student-uses-creativity-to-construct-build-moving-car/): Siddharth (name changed) is a Class 8 student and attends the Mumbai Public School (CBSE) in Mulund. He is an active student and is always engaged in class. When the play sessions were first introduced, the Mechanix game interested him the most, as he is fond of cars and wanted to construct one himself. However, […] - [Power of Play: Class 6 children ideate, create their own games, rules](https://opentree.org/power-of-play-class-6-children-ideate-create-their-own-games-rules/): On January 20, we conducted an interesting play session with students of Class 6 at the Jankalyan School in Malad (West). The previous play sessions have exposed them to different kinds of games and got them thinking about the different aspects of problem-solving such as asking questions to find information about a problem, brainstorming solutions […] - [Kala Ghoda Arts Festival: Pushing play forward with Arzan Khambatta’s doodle workshop and more](https://opentree.org/kala-ghoda-arts-festival-2024-pushing-play-forward-with-arzan-khambattas-doodle-workshop-vibrant-colours/): “Unlike their regular art class, the workshop gave them the freedom to play around without any inhibitions whatsoever.” – Arzan Khambatta, Play Ambassador, Toybank — Development through Play Play helps build skills of creativity and imagination. And we saw a wonderful example of this at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2024. Through our work, we […] - [7 people share their favourite Play Memories with us](https://opentree.org/7-people-share-their-favourite-play-memories-with-us/): Joyful moments of Play in early childhood are important for positive adulthood outcomes.  Through its  work, Toybank — Development through Play is asking for Play to be embedded into our culture and pushing the idea that Play can change society for the better, that joyfulness and playfulness can be a massive driving factor for building […] - [Annual Report 2022-23: Building a World of Play](https://opentree.org/annual-report-2022-23-building-a-world-of-play/): Click here to access Annual Report 2022-23 At Toybank — Development through Play, we have always believed in the Power of Play to transform lives, but in the past three years, its significance has shone brighter than ever. For nearly two decades, we have championed play-based learning, and today, the need for nurturing mental well-being […] - [Spirit of volunteering: Toybankers talk about Play, why volunteering is essential](https://opentree.org/spirit-of-volunteering-toybankers-talk-about-play-why-they-support-the-cause/): Our volunteers help us spread the message of Power of Play, while having a playful time themselves. They support us in play sessions and help us make them accessible to more children. Through the years, this support has helped us take play to more children. On World Volunteering Day, we asked a few of them […] - [Toybank Turns 19: Volunteers engage in playful activities, origami workshop](https://opentree.org/toybank-turns-19-origami-workshop-playful-activities-and-more-with-100-volunteers/): It was heartwarming to see the smiles on those little faces, as they received their thoughtful games.  On August 26, over 100 volunteers came together to distribute games to 1,674 children and conduct fun activities at a school in Malad. The day marked 19 years of Toybank – Development through Play, and was filled with […] - [Playful Parenting: How Play enables parents to better connect with children](https://opentree.org/playful-parenting-how-power-of-play-enables-parents-to-better-connect-with-children/): Play does not mean we need to go out or play with toys. We can do anything because Play is everything. Play during childhood contributes to children’s development in significant ways. It is socially interactive and a way for children to adopt social norms needed to thrive in society: collaboration, empathy and self-awareness among others. […] - [World Play Day 2023: ‘Play helped me hone my skills, elevate my mood’](https://opentree.org/world-play-day-2023-play-helped-me-hone-my-skills-elevate-my-mood/): I never knew doodling could be so fun and engaging. On June 4, 2023, as part of World Play Day, I attended an Ink and Doodle workshop organised by Toybank – Development Through Play.   The workshop was organised in collaboration with Arzan Khambatta, renowned architect and sculptor. We also had Karan Shah, an artist, display […] - [Annual Report 2015-16: Every child needs play](https://opentree.org/annualreport-2015-16-everychildneedsplay/): Children are too full of life to be confined by just letters and numbers, and going beyond basic literacy and numeracy is the need of the hour in an ever-evolving world. - [Annual Report 2021-22: Navigating the new world](https://opentree.org/annualreport2021-22_navigating-the-new-world/): Our planet heralded the emergence of a ‘new normal’ as norms of living got redefined. But the childhood pandemic that denies children their Right to Play has barely waned. - [Annual Report 2016-17: Play without prejudice](https://opentree.org/annualreport2016-17_playwithoutprejudice/): Children know no malice - unacquainted as they are with the biases of religion, caste, race, or class. - [Annual Report 2017-18: Power of play](https://opentree.org/annual-report-2017-18-powerofplay/): The mountain of rings is a riot of colours, like looping the rainbow! It may seem simple, but the stacking activity is replete with benefits. It teaches about colours and sizes perception along with problem-solving; enhances coordination movement, stimulates visual development, strengthens the sense of touch and improves motor skills - just like play at large. - [Annual Report 2018-19: Reaching a milestone](https://opentree.org/2018-19_reaching-a-milestone/): Toybank is a journey we embarked on — to give every child in the world a toy to play with — 15 years ago. As we reach this significant milestone, our heart is brimming with not only pride for touching the lives of tens of thousands of children but also immense gratitude towards those who have helped us every step of the way to get here. - [Play helps children build skills to become creative, engaging adults](https://opentree.org/play-does-not-end-with-childhood-it-continues-to-take-various-forms/): Play is the primary way in which young children connect and engage with the world around them. Through play, children may imagine and explore a world they can control, thus overcoming their fears. When playing together, children are not just having fun, but are building skills of communication and collaboration that will benefit them in […] - [Play sheets keep children engaged during Covid-19 pandemic](https://opentree.org/play-sheets-keep-children-engaged-during-covid-19-pandemic/): Vinay, a student of Class 3, had a tough time keeping himself engaged during the Covid-19 lockdown. He had to share his cellphone with his younger brother Raju, studying in Class 2. Their single room dwelling in the Malvani slums did not make life any easier. Clashing classes made it hard for Vinay to continue […] - [COVID-19: Play made learning easy for students during pandemic](https://opentree.org/how-playsheets-kept-ritu-motivated-with-studies-during-covid-19/): Although an eager learner, Ritu couldn’t concentrate in her virtual classes, as she lives in a joint family. The Class 5 student especially struggled with the English and Science syllabus, and sought help from her classmates, but was unable to completely grasp everything. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, teachers could give her special attention but doing […] - [Play helped Sahil build confidence, taught him teamwork](https://opentree.org/play-helped-sahil-build-confidence-taught-him-teamwork/): Children would not mingle with Sahil and gradually, he grew averse to group activities. He would only mingle with his best friend Devika and no one else. When Play2Learn Sessions resumed at his school, Sahil was very excited and beamed at the thought of all the games he could play with, but revolted when he […] - [Building a world of Play at Toybank](https://opentree.org/building-a-world-of-play-at-toybank/): I dream that Play integrates into our way of life. That ‘Play is food for the child’s mind. Let it not go hungry’, becomes something to live by.  – Shweta Chari, Co-founder, CEO, Toybank It’s been a while since I wrote something first hand so I thought I would give you an update of all […] - [Toybank’s Play2Learn programme benefits children in Mumbai’s Govandi settlements](https://opentree.org/toybanks-play2learn-programme-benefits-children-in-mumbais-govandi-settlements/): In a study conducted in 2012, it was found that Toybank’s Play2Learn programme sessions brought about improvements in children living in informal settlements of Govandi, Mumbai in India The study was conducted over a period of three months with 28 children. Through the play sessions, these children were closely monitored over a period of three […] - [How children learn and develop through different types of Play](https://opentree.org/how-children-learn-and-develop-through-different-types-of-play/): Children, particularly those from marginalised communities, are often denied access to play. Play helps children explore their physical environment and learn about the world right from childhood. It helps them express emotions and improve communication. Attachment theory points to human development beginning with two irreducible forms of play: attuned and exploratory. Play theorists, however, generally […] - [Toybank’s Play2Learn programme increases curiosity, attention span in children](https://opentree.org/toybanks-play2learn-programme-increases-curiosity-attention-span-in-children/): In a research conducted by The Opentree Foundation under the Toybank project between 2017 and 2020, it was found that Toybank’s Play2Learn programme led to 10x increase in curiosity levels of children, 5x increase in honesty levels, and 2x increase in attention span.  At Toybank, we adopt the Conscious Play™ approach to enable children from […] - [Play for Transformation: Toybank roundtable discussion](https://opentree.org/play-toybank-roundtable-discussion/): The need to make Play mainstream and an integral part of society can never be emphasised enough. After all, play improves the educational, health and employability outcomes for children. Driving on this notion, Toybank hosted its first-ever round table, to discuss ‘Play for Transformation’ and how to make it mainstream. The session was attended by Toybank’s […] - [The transformative power of play: More than just fun](https://opentree.org/the-transformative-power-of-play-more-than-just-fun/): In a world that often prioritises productivity and achievement, the importance of play can be easily overlooked. However, renowned psychiatrist Dr. Stuart Brown, in his inspiring TED Talk titled “Play Is More Than Just Fun,” sheds light on the profound impact that play has on our lives. At Toybank, we wholeheartedly believe in the transformative […] - ['Adult memories of childhood play' study: Path to brighter futures](https://opentree.org/adult-memories-of-childhood-play-study-by-dr-doris-bergen/): In the 1980s, researcher Dr. Bergen and researchers Wen Liu and Geng Liu surveyed American and Chinese college students about what they remembered as the most important play experiences of their elementary years.  The study, published in the International Journal of Educology in 1997, revealed that the majority of American college students remembered pretend play […] - [Early childhood education: Exploring the National Curriculum Framework](https://opentree.org/enhancing-early-childhood-education-exploring-the-national-curriculum-framework/): Early childhood care and education are key areas of development, according to the National Curriculum Framework 2022 The Indian government’s launch of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for Education 2022 of Children in the 3-8 Years Age Group marks a significant milestone in the field of early childhood education. This framework aims to provide a […] - [In Jamaica, playing is a serious business: Early childhood stimulation study](https://opentree.org/in-jamaica-playing-is-a-serious-business/): We had the simple idea that if we get mothers to play more with their children, it would help the children’s brain to develop and they would catch up with their fortunate peers. – Christine Powell, Senior Lecturer, University of the West Indies More than 20 years ago, researchers in Jamaica sought to boost stunted, […] - [Annual Report 2019-20: Ensuring happy childhoods](https://opentree.org/annual-report-2019-20/): Mainstreaming Play requires concerted efforts. And our partners, collaborators and volunteers have held us in good stead in our endeavour. If we deny children their Right to Play, we deny them their right to understand the world. - [Annual Report 2020-21: COVID-19 response](https://opentree.org/annual-report-2020-21/): Mainstreaming Play requires concerted efforts. And our partners, collaborators and volunteers have held us in good stead in our endeavour. If we deny children their Right to Play, we deny them their right to understand the world. - [Positive mental health through the power of play](https://opentree.org/mental_health_through_play/): A scelerisque purus semper eget duis at tellus. Lobortis scelerisque fermentum dui faucibus in ornare quam viverra orci. Elementum sagittis vitae et leo duis ut diam quam nulla. - [The Sibling Paradox: To Play or not to Play?](https://opentree.org/the-sibling-paradox-to-play-or-not-to-play/): Siblings are best friends that you are blessed with and most likely spend the most time playing with growing up. These relationships span unmatched rivalry to late-night bonding sessions discussing life and challenges on each other’s bed. However, one thing you can count on siblings to do is to create unforgettable memories made during play-time—from […] - [Chess: Of 64 squares and winning moves](https://opentree.org/chess-of-64-squares-and-winning-moves/): Most of us would have tried our hand at a game of chess at some point, but many do not know that children as young as three to five years can benefit from playing the game. They learn to strategise, analyse, and decode while developing foresight and comprehension skills while playing this ancient board game. […] - [A little drama on World Play Day](https://opentree.org/a-little-drama-on-world-play-day/): There is freedom in being playful and fun and not caring about what people think. This overall freedom adds to the positivity and fun and makes one feel light. – Shaun Williams, Acting Coach and Toybank workshop curator On the hot and humid day of 28th May, amidst the sweltering heat of Mumbai, a palpable […] - [Football Tournament at Changtang, Ladakh](https://opentree.org/football-tournament-at-changtang-ladakh/): A scelerisque purus semper eget duis at tellus. Lobortis scelerisque fermentum dui faucibus in ornare quam viverra orci. Elementum sagittis vitae et leo duis ut diam quam nulla. - [5 games to build empathy through play](https://opentree.org/5_games_to_build_empathy_through_play/): Tellus mauris a diam maecenas sed enim ut sem. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque eu ultrices vitae. Pellentesque eu tincidunt tortor aliquam. - [Manipulating games into teachings: Workshop by Anu Advani](https://opentree.org/manipulating-games-into-teachings-workshop-by-anu-advani/): We are limited only by our own imagination. Who would have thought a game like Snakes & Ladders could be used to teach various other things to children? Make way for Manipulative Training! Anu Advani — a teacher from Brooklyn, US — introduced Toybank’s Program Officers(POs) to unique ways of playing. During this cross-learning session, […] - [Play away. No preparations, no supplies needed](https://opentree.org/play-away-no-preparations-no-supplies-needed/): On the off chance that you have neither the board games nor playing cards at home, here are some indoor games you can play that need no prep, no supplies and little to no materials. These simple yet fun games can be played with things lying around at home. Charades This is an oldie but […] - [Joining the dots of Play at Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2020](https://opentree.org/joining-the-dots-of-play-at-kala-ghoda-arts-festival-2020/) - [Toybank Fiesta 2019 - A mosaic of changemakers](https://opentree.org/toybank-fiesta-2019-a-mosaic-of-changemakers/): As a new volunteer at Toybank, I didn’t know what to expect as I had never volunteered at an NGO before, not to mention that at the Volunteer Induction I walked into a gathering of people much older than me. However, when Shweta Chari – the founder of Toybank – very passionately explained the message […] - [The fun-tastic fiesta](https://opentree.org/the-fun-tastic-fiesta/): It was a novel experience, filled with light, laughter and learning. – A Toybank volunteer All of us, working professionals would perhaps admit to missing our childhood, school and college days. There are multiple reasons for this – but I’m sure it all boils down to the ‘FUN’ element that was predominant in almost every […] - [Play Takes Center Stage: Power of Play Championship Highlights](https://opentree.org/play-takes-center-stage-highlights-from-toybanks-2018-power-of-play-championship/): In April 2018, Toybank held the first ever Power of Play Championship. This revolutionary event provided a unique learning and development experience for 80 children from 20 schools across Maharashtra. In addition to providing an enriching experience for children, this event developed skills and sensitivities in teachers, Toybank team members, and volunteers including volunteers from […] ## Pages - [](https://opentree.org/play-summit-2025/): Play Summit 2025: Finding Play 🎟️ Register Here 💡 Why Play Summit The Play Summit was launched in 2024 with a single vision: to build a thriving ecosystem for Play in India. For two decades, TOF has embedded Play into classrooms, communities, and systems serving children. Yet, Play remains missing from most policies and practices. […] - [Home - Toybank Homepage](https://opentree.org/home-toybank-homepage-2/): Leading Child Development Through Play How We Play Our Cause We aim to mainstream play and make play an integral part of children’s learning through advocating for the Right to Play Our Impact We take Play to 150,000 children across Maharashtra everyday and have supported  7,600+ teachers to transform them into Play Practitioners Our Approach […] - [Together for Play: See the difference you're making](https://opentree.org/give/): Thanks to YOU, we’re making a lasting difference! Thanks to your generosity, we’re well on our way to unlocking the ₹10 Lacs match from our donor! This means, we’ve reached half of our fundraising goal and with your help, we’re already making a difference in 50 anganwadis across Maharashtra. Together, we can achieve our goal […] - [Crowdfund](https://opentree.org/crowdfund-2/): Thanks to YOU, we’re making a lasting difference! Thanks to your generosity, we’re well on our way to unlocking the ₹10 Lacs match from our donor! This means, we’ve reached half of our fundraising goal and with your help, we’re already making a difference in 50 anganwadis across Maharashtra. Together, we can achieve our goal […] - [Crowdfund](https://opentree.org/crowdfund/): Thanks to YOU, we’re making a lasting difference! Thanks to your generosity, we’re well on our way to unlocking the ₹10 Lacs match from our donor! This means, we’ve reached half of our fundraising goal and with your help, we’re already making a difference in 50 anganwadis across Maharashtra. Together, we can achieve our goal […] - [Thank You](https://opentree.org/thank-you/): Payment Complete: Thank you for your donation. - [Research and Resources](https://opentree.org/research-resources/): Play does not end with childhood, it continues to take various forms Read More Toybank’s Play2Learn programme benefits children in Mumbai’s Govandi settlements Read More Toybank’s Play2Learn programme increases curiosity, attention span in children Read More The transformative power of play: More than just fun Read More ‘Adult memories of childhood play’ study: Path to […] - [Child Protection Policy](https://opentree.org/child-protection-policy/): The Opentree Foundation Child Protection Policy Toybank, the flagship project of The Opentree Foundation is an organisation in India that promotes the Right to Play for all children. It provides a unique platform for all individuals of all ages to participate in this movement of propagating the Right to Childhood. PURPOSE As an organisation whose […] - [Terms and Conditions](https://opentree.org/terms-and-conditions/): Terms and Conditions Welcome to opentree.org! Before you begin using opentree.org (“Website“), you must read and agree to these Terms and Conditions including the Privacy Policy (“Terms“) for using this Website, which is owned and operated by The Opentree Foundation (“Toybank” or “Foundation” or “we” or “us” or “our”). By using this Website and any […] - [Annual Reports](https://opentree.org/annual-reports/): OTHERS Annual Report 2023-24: Building resilience, growth through Play Read MoreIMPORTANCE OF PLAYOTHERSREPORT Annual Report 2022-23: Building a World of Play Read MoreDONATIONREPORT Annual Report 2021-22: Navigating the new world Read MoreDONATIONREPORT Annual Report 2020-21: COVID-19 response Read MoreDONATIONREPORT Annual Report 2019-20: Ensuring happy childhoods Read MoreDONATIONREPORT Annual Report 2018-19: Reaching a milestone Read MoreDONATIONREPORT […] - [Toybank News](https://opentree.org/toybank-news/): Exciting news updates at Toybank - [The Opentree Foundation - India’s Leading NGO for Play and Play-Based Learning](https://opentree.org/): Leading Child Development Through Play How We Play Our Cause We aim to mainstream play and make play an integral part of children’s learning through advocating for the Right to Play Our Impact We take Play to 150,000 children across Maharashtra everyday and have supported  7,600+ teachers to transform them into Play Practitioners Our Approach […] - [Stories](https://opentree.org/stories/): EVENTSIMPORTANCE OF PLAYPOLICY From Classrooms to National Conversations: Contributing to India’s National Dialogue on Play-Based Learning Read More0 Comments0 Views 0 LikesEVENTS Rediscovering Play: Insights Shaping Play Summit 2025 Read More0 Comments428 Views 31 LikesIMPORTANCE OF PLAYPLAY2LEARN Annual Report 2024-2025: Twenty Years of Play, Joy, and Change Read More0 Comments692 Views 25 LikesEVENTSIMPORTANCE OF PLAY […] - [Privacy Policy](https://opentree.org/privacy-policy-2/): Who we are Suggested text: Our website address is: https://uat.opentree.org. Comments Suggested text: When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a […] - [Volunteer With Us](https://opentree.org/volunteer_with_us/): Be the changemaker Why We Need You Volunteers continue to be an integral part of our work. As a volunteer, you can bring about a significant social change towards empowering at-risk children through our play programmes. If you care about children and their well-being, we invite you to join us in creating a world where […] - [Our Work](https://opentree.org/our_work/): WHY DO WE CHAMPION PLAY? Play = Childhood Every child, everywhere should be playing. The purpose of our work is to ensure that every child achieves their full potential through play-based learning. We champion the cause of finding a rightful space for play, in children’s lives, schools and communities. Through our play programmes, we aim […] - [Partner With Us](https://opentree.org/partner_with_us/): Corporate Partnerships Be the cause of change You can help transform childhoods by ensuring that at-risk children learn and develop through the Power of Play. To bring learning and development to the lives of children in Maharashtra, we welcome partnerships as a part of Corporate Social Responsibility endeavours. Our Play Programme is geared to meet: […] - [Our Impact](https://opentree.org/our_impact/): WHAT IS PLAY? A Child’s Gateway to the World Play is born from children’s natural curiosity to explore the world around them. In their early days, children use their senses to interact with the world around them. Thus begins play, which continues to shape a child’s life throughout.  Studies have shown that play has a […] - [Contact us](https://opentree.org/contacts/): Contact us Get in touch We would love to hear from you! Visit us The Opentree Foundation, Unit 308, Jagruti Industrial Premises, VSNL colony, Opposite Polycab, Mogul lane, Mahim, Mumbai – 400016 Mail us play@opentree.org Call us +91 8080868235 Share your message Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * - [About Us](https://opentree.org/about-us/): About Us Our Origins The Opentree Foundation (a registered Trust under the Maharashtra Charity Act 1950) was founded on the core tenet that ‘Play’ has the power to change lives.  Toybank – Development through Play, was launched in 2004 as our flagship project. We work to bring transformational change in the lives of children by […] - [Work With Us](https://opentree.org/work_with_us/): TOF won the Silver at Global Good Awards 2025 Join the team Become a Play Champion At The Opentree Foundation, we celebrate creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. You’ll join a caring, fun, and inspiring environment that supports personal and professional growth, helps you build lifelong friendships, and pursue your career aspirations in the social impact sector, […] ## Products - [Patterned Cotton Tablecloth](https://opentree.org/product/patterned-cotton-tablecloth/): Aenean vel elit scelerisque mauris pellentesque. Porttitor lacus luctus accumsan tortor posuere ac ut consequat. Arcu ac tortor dignissim convallis aenean ettor. Tortor vitae purus faucibus ornare. Nunc non blandit massa enim nec. Vitae tort or condimentum lacinia quis vel. 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