National Playday – Play Can Help Foster Children
What is Playday?
Today, 6th August, is National Playday! What is ‘Playday’? Well, it’s one of the biggest play sector events in the UK and is a celebration of children’s rights to play and Playday is a campaign that thrusts the importance play makes in the lives of children. Now in it’s 27th year Playday was a response to government cuts on local play centres and adventure playgrounds back in 1986.
Studies Prove Play Boosts Children’s Development & Happiness
The report, The Play Return by Tim Gill, reviews a wide range of research into the importance of play in helping to support children develop their essential skills and knowledge as they grow older. It found that children’s physical, mental and emotional well-being improved amongst those that integrated play into their everyday lives.
Taking family time out is vital in the lives of foster children, it helps them to engage in family activity, which they have probably never experienced before….laughter, team efforts, exercise, a real sense of belonging. Playing in playgrounds, for instance, is associated with family well-being and living near a playground thus visiting more frequently can lead to higher levels of happiness amongst the family.
So with all the positive effects play can have on a foster child and these nice sunny days…what are you waiting for?! Get outside and play!
Playday on a budget
We all appreciate that summer holidays can be a massive expense but playing outside doesn’t have to be and we have put together a small list of some ideas to get you out playing during Playday (or any day for that matter!):
Large piece of rope = a tug-of-war challenge
Water + washing-up liquid + tarpaulin = homemade water slide
Picnic treats = healthy food made fun and gives that burst of energy needed for play
Bags of sand + buckets = create your own beach party
Blankets + chairs/table = tents to huddle up and tell stories with some treats
Water balloons + water guns = fantastic family water fight (you could even involve the neighbours!)
Hula hoops + skipping ropes + egg & spoon = family sports day
We would love to hear if you have come up with any other creative ways to enjoy family play outdoors on a budget; please leave a comment below!
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