CYP Now - Never underestimate the value of play

A child's natural instinct is to play, and they'll take any opportunity to do it - inside, outside, alone, in a group, with equipment or without. As adults, parents, professionals and society, our responsibility is to ensure that we provide safe environments and stimulating opportunities for children to play. The government has recognised the importance of this in the Fair Play strategy which invests in new and renewed play spaces.

High-quality play can encourage children's creativity and independence. It is essential for physical health, but also boosts their social skills and confidence in interacting with others and developing a measured approach to risk.

The Play Network works across the district of Bradford, developing an integrated play service to enhance the quality and sustainability of play in the area for all children and young people. Working in partnership with the voluntary and statutory sectors and funding bodies, the programme offers play resources that children's centres, schools and out-of-school clubs can access and develop in their settings. Messy play is encouraged, enabling children to experiment with materials like mud and play dough. A mobile skatepark is due to be launched shortly that will move within the district to enable more children to access this activity. The network develops play in a way that complements the curriculum and enhances the health and social benefits they stand to gain from participating in arts and crafts, adventure park play and sports.

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