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

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

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

4. 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.

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

6. 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

7. 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

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

10. Give children time to respond, explore and play

11. 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

12. Listen, discuss, plan and consult with parents

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

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

15. 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

16. 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

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. Healthy heart and lungs

20. Strengthens muscles and keeps joints supple

21. Bone health

22. Develops Core Stability

23. Improves balance

24. Improves mobility

25. Good fun and lifts mood

26. Increases independence

27. Helps confidence

28. Make friends

29. Manages a healthy weight
Protects Skin
Aids digestion
Promotes sleep

30. Resources
Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Birnie Centre, Raigmore Hospital, Inverness