A Holistic Approach to Early Childhood Development
Strengthening every part of a child’s world at home, in school, and in community.
At Sesame Workshop South Africa, we know that children thrive when the world around them supports their growth. That’s why we don’t only create content; we transform systems. Through evidence-based programming, direct community engagement, and powerful partnerships, we work to ensure that every child, especially the most vulnerable, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and belong.
THE PROBLEM WE ARE SOLVING
Closing South Africa’s Early Learning Gap
South Africa faces a crisis in early childhood development. Over 55% of 4- to 5-year-olds are not developmentally on track when entering school.
Without strong foundations, many children fall behind in reading, numeracy, and life skills, challenges that often last a lifetime. The crisis is especially severe in under-resourced communities, where quality ECD services, trained educators, and accessible learning materials remain limited.
We exist to close these gaps, ensuring all children, regardless of background, can thrive.
The Socio-Ecological Model
Supporting Every Layer of a Child’s Life
Children don’t grow up in isolation. Our socio-ecological model places children at the center, while building the capacity of the people, communities, and systems around them.
Children
Amplifying their voices, needs, and lived realities
Caregivers
Equipping parents with tools for responsive, joyful parenting
Educators
Training teachers to create inclusive, play-based classrooms
Communities
Engaging community leaders to foster safe, nurturing environments
Systems
Partnering with government and civil society to strengthen national policy and practice
OUR KEY FOCUS AREAS
Our Core Areas of Impact
Foundational Skills
Literacy, numeracy, science, problem-solving, and school readiness
Emotional Well-Being
Mental health, resilience, and social-emotional skills
Self & Belonging
Identity, inclusion, culture, and social cohesion
Health & Safety
Hygiene, nutrition, body autonomy, child protection, and safety
Climate & Environment
Early climate awareness, environmental responsibility, and sustainability
Gender & Disability Inclusion
Reducing stigma and ensuring every child feels valued and represented
THEORY OF CHANGE
How We Create Lasting Impact
Our Theory of Change outlines how we create lasting impact by equipping parents, educators, and ECD leaders with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to help children thrive.
By combining the reach of Takalani Sesame with training, digital learning, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, we empower children to grow Smarter, Stronger, and Kinder.
MASS MEDIA
Using the Power of Media to Reach Millions
Our flagship show, Takalani Sesame, reaches 3.8 million children every month through television, radio, mobile apps, and digital platforms, including YouTube, SABC, eTV, Showmax, and mobile networks.
Every episode is developed with local experts, delivered in multiple languages, and designed to reflect the rich diversity of South Africa’s children. Mass media allows us to scale learning nationally, reaching children wherever they are.
MASS MEDIA
Using the Power of Media to Reach Millions
Our flagship show, Takalani Sesame, reaches 3.8 million children every month through television, radio, mobile apps, and digital platforms, including YouTube, SABC, eTV, Showmax, and mobile networks.
Every episode is developed with local experts, delivered in multiple languages, and designed to reflect the rich diversity of South Africa’s children. Mass media allows us to scale learning nationally, reaching children wherever they are.
Transforming Early Learning Through Direct Programming
Beyond media, we deliver high-touch, research-driven programmes in communities across South Africa:
Play to Learn
Empowering caregivers and educators to use guided play for early learning.
Watch Play Learn
Using curated educational media to strengthen school readiness and promote co-viewing between adults and children.
Gender Equity Programme
Challenging stereotypes and building inclusive learning environments for boys and girls.
Fatherhood Programme
Engaging fathers and male caregivers in nurturing, responsive parenting through guided play.
Youth Skills Development (dynamo)
Training youth for careers in South Africa’s creative and educational media industries.
Emerging Work
Expanding into digital well-being, climate literacy, and child protection.
Invest In Lifelong Impact
With your support, we can reach more children, empower more caregivers, and expand inclusive, high-quality programming that transforms futures. Together, we can change lives, and build a smarter, stronger, kinder South Africa.
Helping Children Everywhere Grow Smarter, Stronger, And Kinder.