GIVER on TVO Kids: Kids Build Playgrounds in 3 Days
GIVER is a live action reality series on TVO Kids that spotlights children who are making real differences in their communities. Each episode follows a team of six local youths who collaborate with a lively host and team leader, Michael Lagimodiere, along with volunteers from the neighborhood to design and construct a unique playground in just three days. The show celebrates hands on effort, creativity, and teamwork, showing how a focused plan can transform a public space in a brief window of time.
On selecting the young GIVER team: The program looks for candidates from within the community, seeking individuals who show passion, practical interest, or a long held dream of a playground. There are many personal stories behind each choice, reflecting varied motivations and dreams. The emphasis remains on finding capable, motivated kids who can lead a collaborative build alongside adults and peers.
On finding new playground locations: The goal is to meet a genuine community need. Some areas lack safe play spaces, while others have playgrounds that are damaged or no longer suitable. A notable example comes from Niagara Falls, where a girl wrote a letter to the mayor requesting a playground. Her submission became part of the project, and she participated in the build, demonstrating how community voices can steer real change.
On the community’s involvement: Every community has shown remarkable generosity. Labor is a major factor because even with six young builders and the host, volunteers fill a lot of the workload. Parents and other local supporters often lend their time and energy, turning what could be a daunting task into a shared mission. The effort simply would not be possible without this communal backing.
On the impact the builds have on the young GIVER team: At the close of the three day challenge, the kids stand back and feel pride at what they have created. The event proves that when many people unite around a plan and a shared will, significant change can happen quickly. The journey is filled with small moments of progress that accumulate into a major accomplishment, leaving a lasting sense of achievement for the team.
On outstanding final products: In Waubaushene, Ontario, a sawmill park project stood out as a beautiful and functional result. The community contributed ideas and hands on help, creating a space that the children proudly unveiled and celebrated together.
On what the show says to kids: It’s possible to make change happen. When a child spots a need and brings neighbors together around a clear plan, the outcome can be powerful. The message is simple: engage the community, act, and bring an idea to life. The secret is having a plan and rallying others to help, then doing the work in three days with broad participation.
On how you can get involved: Communities can apply to GIVER to be considered for playground development. The creator also designed the playground drawings, which were shared online as a practical instruction manual for anyone who wants to replicate similar playground projects in their area.
Catch GIVER on TVO Kids.