Staff Tool 10 Useful and basic play items

We asked people working in crisis situations if they could take just one thing to support children to play, what would it be?

A good resource is a large, coloured parachute or bits of fabric sewn together. The parachute works well as it is clearly meant for sharing and the children don’t see it as a possession. It can be used to call children together. It is sensory and can be both quiet/ safe and loud/active. It provides shelter and shade. Many camps and urban environments are devoid of colour so the parachute gives an amazing focal point and opportunity for the kids to experience colour, particularly with the sun shining through and casting different colour light. The parachute allows lots of children to engage and gives the freedom for games to develop naturally (in our camp the kids liked to sing Syrian chants whilst bouncing up and down under the parachute).

Paper – for games and to make things. Balloons have multiple uses and are easy to pack.

Chalk – to draw with, make games, can transform a space, and can mark a space for play.

Play dough.

Matches – because making and sitting round fires can be very communal and convivial. Fires can be cooked on, provide warmth and offer place for reflection.

Sheets of polythene that can be spread over a dip in the ground to make a shallow pool or a water slide.

Rope, string, elastic for games, making swings and ladders and den building. Balls (ready-made or home-made) – for games and game starting.