Key resources to support play in children
Fiona Simpson
Wednesday, August 4, 2021
Recognising the importance of children’s play is “more important than ever” following the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Play England.
The national organisation for children’s play campaigns for all children to have the freedom and space to play throughout childhood.
CYP Now has rounded-up three new play initiatives as the UK recovers from the pandemic as well as training guides and resources to help practitioners support children to play:
Summer of Play
Play England has joined forces with Play Wales, Play Scotland and PlayBoard Northern Ireland, to encourage families, carers, and communities to help children enjoy a summer of play.
According to the UK’s key play organisations:
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Playing is essential for children’s mental health and well-being.
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Playing helps children cope with stress and anxiety and fosters resilience, enabling children to better deal with challenges.
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Playing gives children the opportunity to have fun, laugh, take time out, relax, and build friendships.
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Playing outside allows children to appreciate nature, the environment, and feel part of their community.
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Playing is fundamental to children’s happiness, and happy children lead to happier communities.
Anita Grant, chair of trustees at Play England, said: “Play England has been inspired by the children’s sector and their commitment to play throughout the pandemic. Children have been restricted and isolated like never before. We invite everyone to sign the pledge and join us for a whole summer of play www.summerofplay.co.uk.”
Bradford partners with Early Years Alliance
Bradford Council’s health, children’s services and Better Start Bradford are excited to be partnering with the Early Years Alliance to create a new play and learn service to help support the youngest children over the next three years.
The new service, which launched on August 1, aims to support more than 200 toddler and young baby groups across the district as they return to face-to-face meetings in hubs, community centres and other local settings as coronavirus restrictions ease.
10 minute shake-up
Public Health England has teamed up with Disney and Sport England to encourage movement and play through sport for families over the summer.
The 10 minute shake-up programme aims to break up the recommended hour of daily exercise into small, manageable chunks through free videos available online.
For more information visit: www.nhs.uk/10-minute-shake-up
CYP Now has a range of content and articles on play including:
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