At Play Village, children in Zurich, Switzerland, step into a world where imagination and learning come together. The idea for this innovative play space was born from the vision of Radhia, a former primary school teacher from England, who wanted to create a place where children could explore, learn, and grow in a fun and supportive environment. Here’s the story behind the creation of Play Village and why it’s so special.
The Inspiration Behind Play Village
The journey to creating Play Village in Zurich began with Radhia’s experiences as a primary school teacher and her deep understanding of the crucial role play has in a child’s development. As a teacher, Radhia noticed how much children learned through imaginative play, yet many traditional educational settings didn’t offer enough space for this type of creative exploration. She believed that children needed more than just structured lessons—they needed an environment where they could freely express themselves, experiment with different roles, and develop important skills in an engaging and enjoyable way.
From this realisation, the idea for Play Village started to take shape. It would be a space in Zurich where children could immerse themselves in creative play while building essential life skills.
A Place for Imagination to Thrive
Play Village in Zurich is far more than just a typical play centre; it’s a thoughtfully designed world that encourages children to step into various roles and experience different scenarios. With themed areas such as a mini marketplace, post office, medical centre, and construction zone, the space allows children to act out real-world situations and immerse themselves in imaginative play. Whether they’re pretending to run a shop, help someone in need, or work together to build something, the opportunities for role play are endless.
Through these experiences, children develop important skills such as creativity, communication, and problem-solving. As they interact with others, they practise sharing, working together, and overcoming challenges. These activities encourage children to learn by doing, all while having fun.
Creating a Community for Families in Zurich
Another key aspect of Play Village is its role as a community hub for families in Zurich. As an expatriate, Radhia recognised the challenges parents might face when trying to build social connections in a new place like Switzerland. Play Village serves as a space where families, both local and international, can come together, share experiences, and create lasting friendships. It’s not just about the children; it’s about fostering a supportive, welcoming environment for everyone involved.
Supporting Child Development Through Play in Zurich
At the heart of Play Village in Zurich is the belief that play is fundamental to a child’s development. Research consistently shows that imaginative play helps children develop cognitive, emotional, and social skills. By allowing children to explore different roles and take part in creative activities, Play Village helps them gain confidence, build problem-solving skills, and improve their communication. Most importantly, it encourages children to develop a love for learning, which will stay with them throughout their lives.
At Play Village in Zurich, children are not only having fun—they are building the skills they need to thrive in the real world.
