Earlier this year, PlayBoard delivered Play Awareness Training to parents at three nursery schools in Co Down through the Extended Schools Programme – Glenbrook Nursery School, Newtownards Nursery School and Bangor Integrated Nursery School.
During the sessions delivered by Becca Smith, Training Development & Delivery Officer, parents had the opportunity to explore the power of play for children’s health, well-being and development. Parents recalled their own play memories and reflected on how play has radically changed for children today. Parents also discovered the benefits of outdoor play and how partaking in risky play aids children’s resilience and overall development.
The interactive session gave parents the opportunity to engage in loose parts play themselves, whilst learning about the benefits of incorporating loose parts into their children’s play. Parents were provided with low-cost play ideas for busy parents and how to incorporate play into day to day living.
Parents commented:
“After attending the session, I will be implementing more time outdoors with my children regardless of the weather.”
“Allowing our children the freedom to play with loose parts helps build their imagination.”
“Taking risks is okay, my child will learn how to manage their own risk and discover their own boundaries themselves”