Play:Layout 1 11/09/2009 16:33 Page 69
children’s play & the curriculum
Active play stimulates
communication
Active play has proven to be so effective for children with autistic spectrum condition
(ASC) that Treetops School in Grays, Essex has made it part of their curriculum.
F
OR THEIR Verbal Behaviour slides, while the Playshell seats and mechanism, improving the physical
programmes, they needed an active Playhouse provide safe enclosures to fitness of both able-bodied and
play area that would encourage encourage friendly exchanges. To develop wheelchair-using children.
expressive interaction among pupils. The more complex communication skills, the Their newly installed BigToys contain
finished play area provided by Monster play company also incorporated 77% recycled steel uprights and 100%
Play Systems incorporates multi-activity, interactive pieces such as the recycled platforms, enclosures and roofs.
socially-focused structures. TurnAcross. This play system
Monster’s Escapade and Cabana units stimulates cooperation as children
www.MonsterPlay.co.uk
offer a variety of climbing events and transport their friends via a crank
Providing shelter during breakout
C
ANOPIES can be installed around the Stage in its Nursery and Reception
full length of a school to provide classes which are accommodated
shade and breakout areas for together in the Foundation Stage unit.
classrooms and covered walkways for pupils. There had been nowhere for parents to
Roof height, drainage and cleaning are stand in the morning if it was raining, so
among the issues for schools to consider. they all tended to congregate by the
Structures also need to be rugged enough front door which created its own set
to cope with the rigours of outdoor play. of problems.
Continuous canopies at
At Christopher Reeves school in Furthermore, the school wanted to
Christopher Reeves School in Podington. Podington, Northamptonshire, a continuous ensure the children had access to outdoor
canopied area has been installed by play all year round, with suitable shelter
Inside2Outside. The structures have when necessary. The two factors expressed
aluminium frames and fabric covers that a strong need for a canopy structure.
have self-cleaning qualities built into the The Pocca canopy provided by
surface. The installation provides shade Inside2Outside is also able to provide an
when needed but allows ample light extension to what’s happening in the
through in winter. classroom, allowing doors to be left wide
In contrast, Highfield Community open in warmer weather.
Primary School in Gateshead, had simpler
Outside the nursery at
Highfield Primary in Gateshead.
needs to address. Highfield provides for
www.inside2outside.co.uk
children in the Early Years Foundation
edbmagazine.co.uk 69
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