Play in School Age Childcare (2.5 - 3 hours)

Play is at the heart of high‑quality school age childcare. As a sector, we have a responsibility to champion it. This engaging session supports practitioners to develop a deeper, more confident understanding of what play is, why it matters, and how to create rich, inclusive play opportunities that truly meet children's needs.

Designed specifically for staff working in school age childcare across Scotland, this session blends theory with hands‑on exploration. Participants won't just learn about play, they'll experience it, reflect on it, and develop the language and insight needed to advocate for play within their setting.

During this session, participants will explore:

Why play matters

• Children's right to play
• Biological drives that underpin play
• The developmental, social, and emotional benefits

What play is

• Different play types
• Core characteristics of play
• The play cycle and why it's important

How to support play effectively

• Observing, reflecting, and knowing when (and when not) to intervene
• Ensuring play spaces are safe, inclusive, challenging and fun
• Creating an environment where children feel free, supported, and inspired to play

This in‑person session is lively and interactive, giving practitioners the chance to reconnect with play themselves. Because to truly become play experts, we need to play too.