RISKY AND ADVENTUROUS PLAY

Adventurous play, sometimes referred to as ‘risky play’ is a natural part of children’s play and can often be described as a thrilling and exciting activity. Involvement in adventurous play provides children with opportunities to explore and test their own capacity, access risks and manage situations, master new skills, extend their limits and learn life skills. Research shows that the success and failure of adventurous play motivates children to try again and work out different ways of solving problems. It is known to increase their physical and motor skills and teach them about their own limits and capabilities.

At Orchard Early Learning Centre rather than trying to eliminate risks from children’s play, our educators will identify the possible risks and make informed decisions about whether the benefit for children’s development and learning outweighs the risks and protect children from any potential harm.

We firmly believe children who have opportunities to effectively assess and manage risk at an early age will grow to be capable, resourceful and resilient individuals who are better equipped to independently solve problems, master new skills, extend their limits and learn important life skills. Our centres actively support and encourage children to take calculated risks and to make decisions and judgements regarding what they can and cannot do.

Our environments are intentionally designed for children to experience graduated risk, at levels they are comfortable with. We will ensure that every reasonable precaution is taken to protect children from serious harm and hazards. Nature is a perfect leveller, it’s not just for those who are physically capable.

Here every child can find a sense of mastery at a level they are comfortable with.

ADVENTUROUS PLAY RESEARCH