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Summer at last ... play time
August brings, every year, that major industry opportunity and responsibility - long children’s holidays!
The buying signals are the cries, across the country, of ‘nothing to do’ and ‘nowhere to go’ that drive parents to distraction; and make them look around for facilities, opportunities, coaches and “minders” that our sport, parks and leisure industry can provide.
The children and their parents are often disappointed. There are few opportunities for them to have fun and few places for them to go that are safe and don’t result in nuisance – either perceived or real – to other people. No wonder they end up playing computer games or watching TV.
Research undertaken for this year’s Playday on 1 August found that children have been squeezed out of their traditional play areas and the environment near to their homes.
Why?
Parents view the streets as unsafe for children; non-parents view children playing in the street as a nuisance (and an ASBO waiting to happen); parks are viewed as unsafe for small children as they are populated by older children; but older children play in parks because of lack of facilities elsewhere.
An ICM opinion poll for Playday found that 71 per cent of adults played in the street everyday when they were a child, compared to only 21 per cent of children today. But - we can’t go back in time! What is needed, now?
The answer is clear - structured activity for children, of all ages, safe and secure environments for them to explore; opportunities for team play; the chance to enjoy themselves, and to develop.
There are big issues here for our industry, in all its sectors. Local authorities have to recognise that play must be on their agenda (impacting on regeneration, planning, community safety, community development and healthy living). The private sector needs to work with them, and with the voluntary sector, to increase the supply of opportunities and facilities.
ISPAL is looking hard at the play agenda. If you would like to be involved or can cite some examples of good practice, then please email [email protected]
Photograph: www.istock.com © Marzanna Syncerz
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