Cabinet approves new play strategy

2.14.00pm GMT Thu 7th Dec 2006

A strategy to ensure a range of play opportunities is available to children and young people in a variety of settings and geographic locations has been approved by Cabinet.

Play is what children do when given the freedom to follow their ideas and interests. It occurs at home, in informal settings, play areas, formal education settings etc. and creates an opportunity to develop social, physical, cognitive, cultural, emotional, imagination and communication skills as well as psychological skills.

The strategy has been put together following extensive consultation with a range of play providers and parents as well as children and young people. It will form part of the Council's bid to the Play Lottery to be submitted in March 07 where a fund of £505,000 is available to Milton Keynes.

Cllr Euan Henderson Deputy leader of the council, said: "This document gives us a focus in our efforts to create, improve and develop children and young people's local play opportunities throughout the Borough."

The priorities highlighted in the strategy are to:

• extend the choice and control of children and young people in Play.

• ensure children and young people have the opportunity to test boundaries.

• keep children and young people safe from harm.

• maximise play opportunities.

• foster children's independence and self esteem.

• foster children's respect and social interaction.

• foster the child's well-being, healthy growth and development, knowledge and understanding, creativity and capacity to learn

The strategy sets out an action plan for delivery over the next three years and will provide a framework for the distribution of the Big Lottery Grant.