New Joburg Initiative Champions ‘Play-to-Learn’ Foundations
.JOHANNESBURG, June 2026 – Recent data underscores a powerful reality for South African parents – the foundations for a child’s lifelong learning, behaviour, and emotional health are almost entirely built before they ever step foot inside a formal school. According to data from the education sector and reports by Rand Merchant Bank on early development, an incredible 90% of foundational brain development occurs before the age of five.
With foundational literacy and school readiness taking centre stage across Gauteng, local paediatric experts and educational advocates are highlighting the critical need for early environmental enrichment and socialisation long before daycare or Grade R begins.
For the growing number of stay-at-home and work-from-home parents in Johannesburg, finding the time to research, prepare, and execute these vital developmental activities can be overwhelming. Enter Tiny Sprouts, a premier early childhood enrichment and developmental programme designed specifically for babies, toddlers, and preschool-aged children to experience alongside their caregivers.
Founded by entrepreneur Selina Naidoo, Tiny Sprouts was born out of a personal quest to fill a massive gap in the local market.
Selina Naidoo
“I started the business because I was constantly researching ways to enrich and teach my own toddler, as I wasn’t ready for her to go to school just yet,” says Selina. “I realised there wasn’t a ‘mommy and me’ business in our area. It’s a huge gap, especially for first-time moms who desperately want to stimulate their children but simply don’t have the endless hours required to research, buy supplies, and create structured crafts or sensory setups.”
Tiny Sprouts serves as a perfect stepping stone before formal daycare. The structured classes focus entirely on learning through play, combining sensory exploration, movement, music, social interaction, and educational milestones. In doing so, it creates a nurturing environment where children naturally build confidence, communication skills, and creativity.
Crucially, the benefit is dual-focused: while toddlers learn to socialise – an invaluable asset for only children or those without siblings their age – parents and caregivers leave feeling empowered, walking away with practical, age-appropriate “play concepts” they can confidently use at home.
The impact of the programme is already visible in the community. “We’ve literally watched children learn to take their first steps and find their voices, expanding their vocabulary right here at Tiny Sprouts,” Selina shares.
Local parents have mirrored this enthusiasm, with one caregiver recently noting: “Each week I am blown away by the effort that is put in and how the activities match the theme. My child has a lot of fun.”
Looking ahead, Tiny Sprouts is aiming to expand its footprint in Johannesburg to meet the burgeoning demand for quality early childhood stimulation. Future plans include expanding class schedules, offering private venue hire, launching mindful indoor playgrounds, and creating broader community access initiatives.
Classes are currently open for registration. Parents looking to build meaningful community connections, gain confidence in their parenting journey, and give their little ones the ultimate head start are encouraged to join the Tiny Sprouts family.
