Friends – supporting children to have opportunities to play with friends and peers

Contents

3 News 6 Summer of Play 8 Opening streets for play, heath and wellbeing 10 Playing in an adventurous way 12 Protecting playtime in school for wellbeing 14 Wellbeing research with children in Wales 16 Winter of Wellbeing for children in Wales 17 Children have their say on Ministerial Review of Play 18 Playing into the future 20 Playwork Principles into Practice (P3) 21 Spotlight on … 22 Playday 2021

Thank you

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this magazine – we couldn’t do it without you.

This issue of Play for Wales, as well as previous issues, is available to download at www.playwales.org.uk

Editorial

In May 2021, Play Wales joined play and children’s organisations from across the UK to co-ordinate the Summer of Play campaign. Together, we called on everyone – organisations and families alike – to come together during the summer to enable all children, in all our communities, to have space and time for play. We wanted the summer to be a time when children could enjoy: 1. Fun – supporting children to have fun and express themselves through play 2. Friends – supporting children to have opportunities to play with friends and peers 3. Freedom – supporting children to have space, time, and opportunities for free play. The campaign followed concerns from researchers, academics and advocates that at a time of increased stress and worry, children also faced reduced access or significant change to play and the benefits it offers for coping, enjoyment of life and development. We were keen to be involved in this campaign because we knew that children across Wales didn’t always have it easy through the pandemic. As part of consultation for the Ministerial Review of Play, children reported long periods of being stuck indoors and unable to see their friends. They felt their social lives had suffered from the restrictions and was contributing to them feeling isolated and alone, having a negative impact on their wellbeing and mental health. In the lead up to the Senedd election, which took place in May 2021, Play Wales called on the Welsh Government to put play at the heart of supporting children as part of coronavirus recovery. And so, we welcomed the Welsh Government’s Summer of Fun programme, as it supported and complemented the UK wide Summer of Play campaign. Our welcome came with a cautionary note. We wanted to ensure that play and playing was valued for the crucial role it has in a healthy and happy childhood, throughout the year, not just during the summer school holiday. As we move through winter, the Welsh Government has built on the success of Summer of Fun, continuing to provide support for children of all ages through its Winter of Wellbeing programme, so continuing its commitment to children’s play. Playing provides opportunities for social interaction and physical activity. It can also reduce children’s stress and promote wellbeing. It is vital that all children are given the time and safe space they need to enjoy a wide range of playful opportunities, everyday and all year round. Everyone has a role to play in making this possible. Every setting counts – home, parks, streets, schools, playgrounds, public space, childcare, playwork and youth work provision and more. It is crucial adults listen to children and work together towards a positive legacy of lockdown for children.

Marianne Mannello Assistant Director: Policy, Support and Advocacy

Play for Wales is published by Play Wales twice a year. Contact the Editor at: Play Wales, Park House, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff CF10 3AF Telephone: 029 2048 6050 | Email: info@playwales.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1068926 | ISSN: 1755 9243 The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Play Wales. We reserve the right to edit for publication. We do not endorse any of the products or events advertised in or with this publication. Created by Carrick | carrickcreative.co.uk