The Crecer Jugando program from Fundación Infancia Primero has supported more than 4,800 families across 27 municipalities in Chile for over ten years. An evaluation confirms improvements in child development and reduced parental stress starting from the third session.
In Renca, the municipality took over implementation after training from the foundation. Elizabeth Maulén, the municipal coordinator, noted that the program enriches both children and the bond with their caregivers.
Magdalena Mongillo, social director of Infancia Primero, explained that play strengthens daily interactions between children and adults. An evaluation by SUMMA and Estudios y Consultorías Focus found statistically significant changes in parenting skills from the third session onward.
Paloma del Villar, director of the Observatorio Niñez at Fundación Colunga, stated that the evidence supports advancing toward public policies. The program aims to build local capacity so municipalities can sustain the sessions independently.
