Download PDF - Fair Play For Children

of the site. We will use our national capital programme to develop and publicise further
examples of high quality, innovative play facilities. We will also join with high profile
designers to showcase fresh ideas for play space, and run a design competition to be judged by
children.
Play England
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Play offers an excellent opportunity to ensure that all children in an area – of all ages, genders
and abilities – participate in fun activities. Well designed play areas can meet the needs of
disabled and non-disabled children: it is essential that facilities are accessible to disabled
children and that the skills, attitudes and behaviours of those organising provision support the
inclusion of all children, rather than acting as a barrier.
Play areas must be attractive to all children, and we also encourage authorities to think
creatively about how they can increase the participation of girls and certain minority ethnic
groups. Feedback from boys and girls shows that there are clear gender differences in play, with
boys tending towards more active and competitive play involving team games, with a risk and
fear factor. Girls tend towards more passive, talk-based interaction and prefer using their
imaginations and role-playing. The design of play spaces should support these different
preferences – for example by incorporating quieter areas where children can hang out and talk
if this is what they want to do – but also challenge them, where possible, to encourage
diversification of skills and interests.
Fair Play: A consultation on the play strategy
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