Open Minds, Open Doors: Listening to John

By Playeum

Play can open a window into a child’s world. By listening or looking closely, adults can discover what matters to them. How to support them is shown by Dr Esther Joosa (PhD) through her work leading our Open Minds, Open Doors (OMOD) community play programme. Today, we feature her interactions with nine-year-old John.

While most children in the programme are non-verbal, John is not. On the contrary, he is vocal. He frequently relates how several years ago, he was diagnosed with autism level 2. Since the onset of his attendance, he often relates his struggles to connect with peers because his initial interests were not understood. 

In the play programme, he meticulously creates structures with blocks, dominoes, and Jenga, as well as enjoys time outdoors. He enjoys giving suggestions for play to the adults around him and notes his preferences, such as real, hands-on materials like clay that can be shaped, tested, and changed. These materials, he says, help children think, experiment, and learn about change.

As John reflects on inclusion, he observed that not all disabilities are visible and that some children hide differences to avoid judgement. He believes kindness and understanding should not depend on whether someone is different.

Through John’s reflections, his growing sense of meaning, creativity and autonomy appeared. The programme shows that listening to children can guide the design of play, choice of materials, and adult support. Play is more than fun. It is essential for creativity, connection, and growth.

When adults take the time to listen to children’s voices, observe their choices, and take note of ideas, play can become more meaningful, inclusive, and empowering.

The latest OMOD newsletter, written by Dr Esther Joosa, shares John’s journey and shows how children express themselves through play. Open Minds, Open Doors has been a collaboration between Playeum and Arts of the Earth since 2019 and is supported by the President’s Challenge.

Read the full newsletter and learn more about the programme here: www.playeum.com/omod