Istanbul's Uğurböceği Becomes First to Receive New MEB License for Children's Play Houses

In a significant development for early childhood education in Turkey, the Uğurböceği Çocuk Etkinlik ve Oyun Evi in Istanbul's Çekmeköy district has been awarded the first license under the Ministry of National Education's (MEB) new "children's activity and play house" regulation. This groundbreaking initiative, effective since September 5, 2025, officially recognizes and standardizes centers catering to children aged 25-72 months, ensuring that these crucial early learning environments meet stringent quality, safety, and pedagogical benchmarks. Founder Hürrem Nayın Arıca expressed pride in being the first in Istanbul to receive this MEB-backed license, highlighting the rigorous inspection process that included building safety, hygiene, and staff qualifications. "We are proud to be the first institution in Istanbul to receive a license in this status," Arıca stated, emphasizing the MEB's assurance and the professional, pedagogically sound education provided. The new regulation addresses a long-standing concern about the lack of oversight in the sector, offering parents a vital guarantee of quality and safety. Arıca noted that this standardized model, which focuses on play-based learning to foster social, cultural, artistic, and physical development, will empower children to enhance their daily life skills while providing families with the confidence of entrusting their children to a legally recognized and state-supervised institution.

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We are proud to be the first institution in Istanbul to receive a license in this status. Our team's competence has been approved by the MEB. Our building received a report on compliance with educational institution standards in terms of earthquake safety. Our architectural structure has been rearranged according to the regulation. Our cleaning and hygiene practices were approved by the District Health Directorate, and fire safety by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Fire Department.