Tips for Parents to Encourage Community Play

I write a lot about smartphones & my new podcast Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends is all about conversations around handling tech and family life & is available on all podcast platforms.

Jonathan Haidt’s book ‘The Anxious Generation’ talks a lot about how life completely changed for kids around 2010 from a play based childhood to a smartphone based childhood.

I think play is the antidote to too much tech.

I’ve written about the importance of play before but I think community play is something that has been overlooked as another part of the jigsaw to children’s wellbeing.

Community play offers numerous benefits for children, from socialisation to physical health. As parents, fostering an environment where your child can participate in and enjoy community play is essential.

Here are some practical tips to help you get started:

1. Explore Local Resources

• Parks and Recreation:

Visit local parks, playgrounds, and recreation centres. Some communities offer free or low-cost programmes, including sport, arts and crafts, and special events.

• Libraries:

Check your local library for storytimes, reading groups, and educational activities.

• Community Centres:

These often host a variety of programmes and events tailored for children of different ages.

 

2. Encourage Diverse Activities

• Sport:

Sign your child up for community sports teams to help them develop teamwork skills and stay active.

• Arts and Crafts:

Participate in community art projects or classes to stimulate creativity.

• Music and Dance:

Look for local music or dance classes that offer group learning experiences.

 

3. Model Participation

• Join In:

Whenever possible, participate in community activities with your child. This not only shows support but also sets an example of engagement and enthusiasm.

• Volunteer:

Consider volunteering for community events or organisations. This is a great way to meet other parents and integrate your family into the community.

4. Create Play Opportunities

• Host Playdates:

Organise playdates with other parents to help children build friendships.

• Community Events:

Attend local festivals, fairs, and community gatherings to expose your child to a variety of social settings.

5. Promote Inclusivity

• Inclusive Playgrounds:

Seek out playgrounds and recreational facilities that are accessible to children with different abilities.

• Diverse Activities:

Encourage your child to participate in activities that expose them to different cultures and communities.

6. Prioritise Safety

• Supervision:

Always supervise your child during community play to ensure their safety and help mediate any conflicts that arise. But don’t always ‘rush in to rescue’ – kids don’t learn anything if you’re a helicopter parent!

• Stranger Awareness:

Teach your child about the importance of staying close to trusted adults and recognising unsafe situations.

7. Encourage Independence

• Age-Appropriate Freedom:

Gradually give your child more independence as they become comfortable in community settings.

• Problem-Solving:

Allow your child to navigate minor conflicts and challenges to build their confidence and problem-solving skills.

8. Balance Structured and Unstructured Play

• Structured Activities:

Enroll your child in organised activities that have a clear structure and goals.

• Free Play:

Ensure your child has time for unstructured play, which fosters creativity and self-expression.

9. Stay Informed

• Community Bulletin Boards:

Keep an eye on community bulletin boards and online forums for upcoming events and activities.

• School Newsletters:

Read school newsletters and announcements for opportunities to engage in community play.

10. Support Friendships

• Encourage Socialising

Encourage your child to invite friends to community events and activities.

• Listen:

Be attentive to your child’s interests and friendships, supporting their involvement in activities they enjoy.

 

Encouraging community play is one of the most impactful ways you can contribute to their child’s development and well-being. By exploring local resources, promoting diverse activities, and modelling active participation, you can help your children build strong social skills, stay active, and feel a deep sense of belonging within their community.

Through inclusive and safe play, children not only have fun but also learn essential life skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.