Play and Participation Policy

At Wakitu out-of-School clubs we believe play is a huge part of a child’s life. It promotes independence, builds friendships, supports learning, teaches life skills and so much more. It should promote equality, diversity, and independence by welcoming and enabling the participation of all children regardless of ability, culture or background. We aim to give children in our out-of-School clubs lots of play opportunities.  

We will offer a range of daily/weekly activities that change often to allow our little growing minds to fulfil enjoyment.  

Activities to promote: 

  • fine motor skills, such as, creative activities, dough, baking, sewing, crafting 

  • construction opportunities. Lego, bricks, megano, construction toys, trains, tracks 

  • roleplay experiences, with role play toys such as houses, garages, farms etc 

  • gross motor activities in our hall or outdoor spaces, to help burn some energy off. Like football, rounders, group games, dance etc 

  • We want to have external agencies come and teach some sessions, e.g. art, dance football etc. 

  • Gaming, board games, computer games, tablets. 

  • We will consider child’s age ranges and plan activities appropriately to meet all ages.  

We want all the children to have a say in what they like to play, and we can tailor it carefully to their interests. It is our job to ensure: 

  • Children’s play should be freely chosen and personally directed. 

  • We encourage children to initiate their own play ideas, at their own pace and have fun to build on their imagination and develop their language and social skills. 

  • Play opportunities are available for all abilities, cultures, and social backgrounds. 

  • A variety of resources, materials, and equipment appropriate to children’s play needs are provided. 

  • Children are involved in the planning of activities, and they are given opportunities to access, manage and encounter risk. 

  • A balance of child-initiated and adult-led play activities are offered. 

  • Staff play with children when invited. 

  • The environment is changed in response to children’s play. 

  • Children’s artwork is displayed where possible. 

  • Help is available so children can learn about and respect others regardless of gender, ethnicity, SEN, or socioeconomic background.