Without early identification and timely intervention, untreated developmental challenges can snowball into serious learning disabilities and emotional and behavioral problems. The Nurturing Playground program promotes timely detection of development challenges by early childhood educators, using playground equipment to assess and strengthen the motor skills of preschool children.

The Active Nurturing Playground utilizes common playground equipment to promote physical development, encourage self-confidence, and foster social skills. The program also trains educators to detect developmental delays, provides them with tools to remedy mild motor handicaps, and teaches them to assist children experiencing difficulties. Given the skills and know-how, early childhood educators can responsibly refer parents for further assessment and therapy when necessary.

This innovative program has met with outstanding success and has been warmly welcomed by parents and educators. Begun in 2001 as a pilot project, it is now being expanded to other parts of Israel.

The Bernard van Leer Foundation, local municipalities and Ashalim are partners with Ezer Mizion in the Active Nurturing Playground.