IT’S playtime in Worcester.
The University of Worcester is hosting a day of traditional outdoor games and helping families learn how they can create more opportunities for children to play in their communities.
The free event will take place from 11am to 2pm on August 6 at the university’s City Campus, and will give all ages the chance to enjoy a range of simple outdoor activities while speaking to university staff and members of Play Worcester about organising temporary street closures for play.
Dr Emma Laurence, lecturer in early childhood studies, said: “We’ve got such fantastic spaces to share, and this is about opening them up so families can come along, play together and spend time as a community.
“We’ll have chalk, bubbles and lots of simple play equipment, but really, it’s people that make the day.”
Dr Laurence continued the event would also provide an opportunity for parents to learn more about creating play opportunities in their own neighbourhoods.
“Play is vitally important, and there simply aren’t enough free, accessible spaces where children and young people can just be.
“At a time when we’re hearing more and more about the impact of excessive screen time and social media use on children, this is a great opportunity to open up more spaces for young people.
“We’re talking about reclaiming streets for play. Even if it’s only for an afternoon, the benefits can be significant. Families get to see their children playing safely outside, making friends and enjoying their local environment together.
“Once communities do it a few times, it starts to feel normal, and children begin to see their neighbourhoods as places where they belong.”
