Play is for Every Body Ruth Manson Physiotherapist : Children and Young People Highland Council

It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them

Play allows children to use their creativity, while developing their imagination, dexterity and physical, cognitive and emotional strength.

For Highlands Children 4 Play Improvement Group aim is that 87% of children in Highland are actively involved in self directed free play with access to the outdoors by 2017 They aimed to achieve this by Acceptance of appropriate risk taking The expectation of being outside in different weather conditions Recognition of the importance of self directed free play for children and young people of all ages.

A lack of play will mean children are less able to achieve their full potential

The Case for Play Report 90% of parents with disabled children said they did not think their children had the same opportunities for play Barriers Negative public attitudes towards children with disabilities Misguided notions of health and safety Play settings not accessible to children with multiple needs (including changing facilities) Insufficient funding at a local level Training needs for early years staff

Key Principles of Inclusive Play Equality does not mean treating everyone the same, it is about making the adjustments that enable all children to take part

Every child is unique. Take time to get to know each child, their needs, and where to get advice on how to include them

Give children time to respond, explore and play

Have a can do attitude and always focus on what the child can do Have a can do attitude and always focus on what the child can do. Understand the importance of giving a child the opportunity to achieve

Listen, discuss, plan and consult with parents

Where possible therapy should be delivered through play (MOVE Programme)

Manage risk effectively, don’t let it get in the way of play

As a child there are risks in the everyday rough and tumble of exploring their surroundings This is healthy risk taking, even though parents/carers are careful to take all necessary precautions eg falling when learning to walk or ride a bike

Managing the risk Focus on the positive aspects of risky play Opportunity to achieve Fun and excitement Developing skills Interaction with the world around them Developing strength, co-ordination and confidence

Is the activity genuinely risky, how likely will the child get hurt, and how serious would the injury be. Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Build confidence. Avoid fearful language. ‘Show me how careful you can be’ instead of ‘Be careful!’ Make time for physical play. accidents often happen when we are in a rush. Apply common sense – risky play has always been an integral part of childhood. www.hse.gov.uk/contact/myth-busting.htm

Children under 5 should be physically active for at least 180 minutes daily. Children and young people over 5 should be active for at least 60 minutes daily. The easiest and most fun way of doing this is through play.

Healthy heart and lungs

Strengthens muscles and keeps joints supple

Bone health

Develops Core Stability

Improves balance

Improves mobility

Good fun and lifts mood

Increases independence

Helps confidence

Make friends

Manages a healthy weight Protects Skin Aids digestion Promotes sleep

Resources www.playhighland.co.uk www.bumps2bairns.com www.sense.co.uk www.scope.org.uk www.nhs.uk/start4life www.early-education.org.uk www.guidedogs.org.uk www.highlandcycleabilitycentre.com www.chipplus.org.uk www.ndcs.org.uk Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Birnie Centre, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness. 01463 706106