Since its inception, the "Parenting on the Move" (PoM) program has been a beacon of hope for migrant and refugee families, empowering parents to foster resilience, well-being, and education for their children amidst the challenges of migration and refugeehood. PoM offers a comprehensive framework of psychosocial support, education, and entertainment, encouraging family cohesion and intercultural exchange. In this article, we delve into how playful parenting can be a cornerstone of support for these families, drawing from the rich insights and practical guidance provided by the PoM program. But first, hear about it firsthand in this insightful video with many practical examples: 

1. Exploring Playful Parenting in Migration and Refugeehood 

Parenting on the Move (PoM) has been tailored to assist parents in creating a nurturing environment for children up to 12 years old during migration and refugeehood. Through parent workshops, family workshops led by trained moderators, and materials designed for engaging family activities, PoM provides a structured yet flexible approach to playful parenting. 

One poignant example from the program involved a family who used storytelling to navigate their journey. They created stories about their travels, the places they stayed, and the people they met. This not only provided a creative outlet for the children but also helped the family process their experiences together. One child, inspired by these stories, began drawing maps of their journey, which became a treasured family keepsake and a way to visually connect their past with their present. 

The Power of Play in Building Resilience 

The core of playful parenting in the PoM program is its ability to transform challenging situations into opportunities for growth and learning. Families are encouraged to draw from a set of 31 activity cards, each offering a unique theme for the day, such as "Explore Your Surroundings Day" or "Learn a New Language Day." These activities help children and parents alike to engage with their environment, learn new skills, and maintain a sense of normalcy and joy amidst uncertainty. 

For example, on "Music, Song, and Dance Day," families explore traditional dances from their home countries as well as the host country. This activity not only promotes physical exercise and creativity but also fosters intercultural understanding and appreciation. 

2. Developing Playful Parenting Competencies 

Key competencies for playful parenting are at the heart of the PoM program. These include responsiveness, acceptance, knowledge of child development, and emotional investment. The program aims to build these skills gradually, integrating lessons into daily routines and encouraging parents to see play as an opportunity for emotional well-being and learning. 

Building a Framework for Playful Parenting 

Developing these competencies involves understanding and adapting to the children's needs, creating a structured yet flexible routine, and finding balance between obligations and play. The PoM program emphasizes the importance of daily routines, health care, and safety, providing parents with practical advice and support through workshops and mentoring. 

In one workshop, parents learned about the significance of daily routines for children's sense of security and stability. They were encouraged to establish a regular but adaptable schedule that balanced play, learning, and rest. This not only helped children adjust to new environments more quickly but also fostered a greater sense of harmony within the family. 

3. Implementation Through a Comprehensive Support System 

The success of the PoM program lies in its comprehensive approach, involving training of facilitators, mentoring through implementation, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. Facilitators are trained to lead workshops, support parents, and create an environment where playful parenting can thrive despite the challenges of migration and refugeehood. 

Challenges and Successes 

One significant challenge noted by the PoM team has been ensuring continuous support for families in transit. To address this, the program has established mentoring, supportive supervision, and learning communities where facilitators can share experiences and develop their skills in playful parenting. 

A notable success story involves a family who, through participation in the PoM program, was able to turn their daily struggles into opportunities for bonding and learning. By engaging in activities like "Board Game Day" and "Reading Day," they not only entertained their children but also strengthened their family ties and created a sense of normalcy and stability. 

4. Future Directions 

Looking ahead, the PoM program recommends involving more health professionals, educators, and community leaders in promoting playful parenting in the context of families on the move. Expanding reach and ensuring that every child has access to playful learning opportunities can make a lasting impact on the lives of migrant and refugee families. Play, as a universal language, offers endless learning opportunities and is a crucial tool for supporting quality parenting and child development. Learn more about the Parenting on the Move Program and explore helpful resources here.  

This article was produced to share insights from the PoM program, a partnership with Save the Children and CIP, and on ISSA’s work on Playful Parenting conducted in partnership with LEGO Foundation and UNICEF. Together, we support parents and caregivers in engaging in playful parenting, creating resilient, thriving families on the move.