Play is fundamental to healthy childhood development
When children have amazing play opportunities, the benefits are truly phenomenal. Play builds resilience and enables children to manage risk. Play improves children’s health and wellbeing, increasing physical activity and developing self-esteem.
Importantly, play is fun and the key to a happy childhood.
The benefits of play
Builds resilience and enables children to manage risk
Improves children’s health and wellbeing
Develops problem solving, communication and social skills
Increases physical activity
Develops confidence and self-esteem
The Case for Play in Schools
The Case for Play in Schools is the first-ever comprehensive review of the academic and literary research evidence supporting the case for better play in primary schools. This report from OPAL, sponsored by Sport England and carried out in association with Gloucester University, will provide decision-makers with the evidence they need to improve the policy, strategic planning and funding support for play in UK primary schools.
“Providing a rich play environment allows the children to develop skills and evaluate their own risks. Our playground is a hive of activity which aids the wellbeing of our children.”
Caroline Hodgson, Headteacher, Esh Winning Primary School
