In 2017, Zhi-Shan expanded its services into Myanmar. In rural areas without electricity, we established childcare centers and provided parental education to the children's caregivers. Women from the community and our team sat on the ground, utilizing local materials to create learning toys for the children to learn with. 

In collaboration with the internationally acclaimed child development organization Plan International, Zhi-Shan launched a childcare program in the town of Liangwu, Mandalay Province, in central Myanmar. In 2019, Zhi Shan ventured into conflict-affected areas in northern Myanmar, partnering with the local organization "Meikswe Myanmar." Together, we assisted in building childcare centers within the community and conducted parental education sessions to ensure children's rights to survival and development. Our efforts aimed to safeguard their health, nutrition, social and emotional development, safety, and protection. 

Community voice 

Changes of a child of Play Group Session   

6 years old- 

Ma Yin Lae Aye who was from Daw Nghan Kar village from Demoso Township, currently living in the Hsike Kaung IDPs site in Hsihseng township, with her family. While trying to flee from war field with her family, she witnessed everything in the battle fields, wars, dead bodies, air bombs. Due to the trauma, she does not speak, always in fear, and never stay away from her parents. However, due to the play group activities, her behaviors have changed and improved a lot. She was used to play alone beside her mother. But now, she could able to participate with other children, could speak out with her friends. Moreover, she follows the activities of drawing and singing. She is now very active to come to play group and willing to help teacher. Her parents are very glad for their daughter for her improvement.     

Volunteer of Play Group Session

My name is Nang Kham Kyi and I am 43 years old. I am from Loi Kawng village, Taunggyi Township and I am the leader of Children Play Group Session. Before attending the Children Play Group Training which conducted by Meikswe Myanmar, I did not know anything about children. I hit and punished the children. I don't know how to communicate with children. I don't know what they want. I pushed the children to be what I wanted them to be. I did not participate in the village activities. I don't do much leadership in the village myself. After attending the training, I learned to love children more. I learned that I have to tell to understand. I learned that I have to be patient. That's why I patiently teach children at the playground. I learned more about children's needs and children's different ways of learning through practical leadership in play. When I had to lead the parents in the village, I was afraid at first. I didn't have confidence in what I said. Now, when I do the discussion groups regularly, I am closer to my parents and my self-confidence is increasing. The warm relationship of parents and committee members also gave me strength. I would like to thank the Myanmar Friends Group for cultivating me to be a confident leader.