LAYC are working in partnership with Playbox and the Edinburgh City Council Play Development team to help enhance the play opportunities available to children using After School Clubs.
PlayBox is based on traditional scrap store play using recycled materials and Loose Parts (eg.tyres, tarpaulins, traffic cones, household goods like pots and pans and old computer keyboards). PlayBox runs out of a specially adapted shipping container at Gilmerton Community Centre as well as using a van to deliver outreach play sessions throughout Edinburgh.
“PlayBox gives our children the opportunity to use their imaginations and creativity on a wider scale. The wide range of range of materials allows them to work together and as individuals. It is also provides great problem solving opportunities.”
PlayBox will work with After School Clubs as part of LAYC’s ASC Co operative Charter to provide:
– initial introductory training sessions for staff
– Outreach taster sessions which will provide after school clubs the opportunity to see how loose part play can work within your own environment
– Information resource pack
– Starter Packs of Loose Part resources
“Brilliant! Children were so engaged and loved exploring the different materials available to them.”
If After School Clubs decide that they want to to try to get their very own PlayBox, the project will assist with several of the stages required:
– Identifying clubs specific needs
– Planning, introduction and implementation of loose parts play
– Storage options
– Help with sourcing suitable loose part resources.
The project can also offer ongoing support to clubs introducing loose-parts play to ensure
on-going sustainability and success.
“I didn’t know junk could be so much fun!”
– 8 year old