About PEN Play
PEN Play was founded by Dr. Petro Erasmus — a registered Educational Psychologist, researcher and remedial specialist with a special interest in neurodevelopmental disorders, and the creator of Maths Whartels.
Using play to develop
Our play-based approach grows the skills children carry for life — across cognition, learning and emotional wellbeing.
“To bring creative solutions that help as many children and adults as possible reach their full potential — using PLAY not only for cognitive development, but also to grow EQ, resilience, mindfulness and FLOW!”
Dr Petro Erasmus
Dr Petro Erasmus is a registered Educational Psychologist, remedial therapist and researcher specialising in neurodevelopmental disorders including dyslexia, autism and ADHD. Her research began in 2000 during her Master's studies, designing remedial mathematics programmes for second-language learners. She has 30 years' experience teaching remedial mathematics from pre-school through Grade 11, with doctoral research focusing on study orientation and emotional intelligence as predictors of achievement. She created Maths Whartels and founded the Let's Really Play Maths Centres to empower educators in using play-based approaches.
The people behind PEN Play
Dr Petro Erasmus
Founder / CEOFounder and CEO of PEN Play — a practising Educational Psychologist (17 years) and Senior Lecturer at NWU Mafikeng campus (Department of Psychology, 14 years). With over 30 years of experience across the field, she works with learners, parents and professionals, presents workshops, and created the trademarked content used in the Let's Really Play Maths franchises.
Mogapi Mogapaesi
AdvisorFounder and Chairperson of the Mogapi Mogapaesi Foundation, a non-profit focused on closing the access gap to quality education and addressing barriers to Early Childhood Development (ECD).
Anneleze Erasmus
Administration / AccountsWith an academic foundation in Human Movement Sciences and Physiotherapy — and registered as a physiotherapist with the HPCSA — Anneleze brings a wealth of expertise to the team. As the owner of a physiotherapy practice for the past six years, she has honed her skills in patient care, rehabilitation and practice management.
Anushka van den Berg
Psycho-Educational / MarketingCurrently pursuing an M.Ed in Psychology, building on a B.Ed Hons in Educational Psychology and a B.Ed. Drawing on five years as an educator, she is committed to nurturing holistic development in learners. Her background in wellness counselling, child and family guidance, and specialised dyslexia training lets her offer personalised support to individuals facing a range of challenges.
Jacqueline van Zyl
Commercial ManagerA seasoned business owner for 18 years, Jacqueline has honed her entrepreneurial skills and leadership acumen. Her involvement in acquiring two mining licences reflects her capacity for strategic planning and regulatory compliance — equipping her to approach challenges with creativity, empathy and a holistic perspective.
Dr Tumelo Leeuw
AdvisorDistrict Paediatrician in Ngaka Modiri Molema, Mafikeng, and in private practice with a special interest in neurodevelopmental paediatrics.
Ulrich Erasmus
Operational ManagerWith a diverse educational background — a B.A in Human Movement Science and dual B.Sc degrees in Quantity Surveying (one with Honours) — combined with extensive experience in executive and project management, Ulrich brings a unique blend of expertise to the team.
Jani Prinsloo
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Monique Faure
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