Iftah Ya Simsim (Al Hosn Festival)

At its core, Iftah Ya Simsim focuses on Arabic learning content for young children that is both entertaining and educational. It is a programme that focuses on a belief in the child’s innate learning capacity and the importance of developing materials that engage children in a proactive and interactive manner. A key concern of parents and educators in the region relates to the dearth of quality Arabic educational content that addresses children’s holistic development — physical, social, emotional, cognitive and moral. Iftah Ya Simsim emerges from within the heart and soul of the Mena region. The content is specifically designed to be “simple, heartfelt, funny, real and furry”, so that children can connect with the messages and relate to (and practice) what they learn. Through Iftah Ya Simsim’s engaging and loveable Muppets — No’man, Shams, Malsoon, Elmo, Kaaki and Gargur — and the show’s human cast, we can help children to reach their fullest potential. The show models important skills such as self-discipline and independence, and core social values such as sharing, caring, understanding and respecting others.