Choosing high quality safety surfacing together with robust, safe and interesting equipment that is strategically sited has enable the children to become familiar and confident in their environment.
How are you using the space to deliver outdoor learning & educational play?
We see our new playground as an extension of the indoor classroom. The playground is accessed on a daily basis to ensure that the varied resources are used and our learning goals are achieved. Our equipment is adaptable and we have used it for a number of different themes. Recently we used one of the bridges as a walking plank for a pirate ship when we organised a Peter Pan week, to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital. The layout of our outdoor space allows bikes, trikes and scooters to play in restricted areas and the choice of outdoor musical instruments encourages the children’s creative flair. The playground is used to observe children achieving personal social and emotional development. While they interact with the equipment they have to negotiate and learn to share with their peers as well as challenging their own physical abilities.
What are the biggest benefits you have seen for the children?
Choosing high quality safety surfacing together with robust, safe and interesting equipment that is strategically sited has enable the children to become familiar and confident in their environment. In turn, this has enhanced their physical and imaginative experiences. The children look forward to going outside to play, learn and get their one hour of recommended physical exercise a day. Allowing children the independence to access the playground, during free play, helps them to learn control, manage and manipulate the equipment, as well as helping them to grow in self-confidence.