We combined facilitator training, creative writing activities adapted for early childhood, and hands-on art exercises within the Creative Cycle – Plant • Grow • Harvest framework:

• Plant: Train-the-trainer sessions for local volunteers in collaboration with the MEYFUND Foundation, introducing them to Lilalab’s creative writing methods and early childhood engagement techniques.

• Grow: Three themed weekly workshops using storytelling prompts, songs, and tactile activities to develop language skills, observation, creativity, and teamwork.

• Harvest: A collaborative final activity, reflection on the learning journey, and celebration to strengthen community bonds and children’s confidence.

• Target group: Children aged 4–5 years living at the Agape Children’s Home, Ghana.

• Volunteers: Local young adults trained by Lilalab to facilitate creative writing and art activities.

• Partners: MEYFUND Foundation and Trytirah.

PLANT

• Online facilitator training for volunteers.

• Preparation of workshop materials, including picture prompts, plush alphabet cards, playdough, puzzles, and songs.

GROW

• Week 1 (23 Nov 2024) – Igniting Imagination: Storytelling with picture prompts, object observation exercises, color identification, and song learning. For children facing writing challenges, drawing, coloring, and copywriting book activities were provided.

• Week 2 (30 Nov 2024) – Creativity in Action: Storytelling with plush alphabet cards, letter-meaning connections, playdough sculpting, and a second joyful song.

• Week 3 (14 Dec 2024) – Teamwork and Celebration: Collaborative puzzle-building of Noah’s Ark in groups, recap of earlier activities and songs, and refreshments to mark the close of the workshop.

HARVEST

• Volunteers and children reflected on their experiences.

• Strengthened skills in observation, motor coordination, storytelling, and cooperation.

• Celebration to acknowledge achievements and build a sense of pride.

• Partnerships: MEYFUND Foundation and Trytirah for local coordination and volunteer mobilisation.

• Materials: Picture cards, plush alphabet cards, art supplies, playdough, puzzles, and refreshments.

• Training: Lilalab-led train-the-trainer sessions for volunteers.

• Reach: Directly engaged 4–5-year-old children from the Agape Children’s Home through three immersive creative sessions.

• Capacity building: Equipped local volunteers with facilitation skills and creative activity frameworks to continue beyond the project.

• Creativity boost: Improved children’s ability to imagine, narrate, and visually express stories.

• Skill development: Enhanced observation, early literacy, motor skills, and teamwork.

• Cross-cultural exchange: Demonstrated Lilalab’s capacity to adapt and implement its methods globally in partnership with local organisations.

• Strengthen partnerships with MEYFUND and similar organisations to expand creative writing programs in Ghana and other African countries.

• Develop a Creative Writing for Early Childhood facilitator guide for global replication.

• Explore follow-up workshops to sustain and deepen the skills gained by participants.