At the National Nanny Association, we know that play is at the heart of childhood. As nannies, we are born to play! That’s why we are proud to back the campaign led by Sir Paul Lindley and the Centre for Young Lives Play Commission, calling on the government to restore school playtime. Their interim report highlights an alarming trend: play is being squeezed out of children’s lives, and we must act now to bring it back.
Read more about the findings and recommendations here: Centre for Young Lives Play Commission Report
Why Play is Vital
Play is not just a fun break from structured learning; it is essential for children’s development. It fosters creativity, social skills, emotional regulation, problem-solving abilities, and physical health. The Play Commission’s report warns that reduced playtime in schools is impacting children’s well-being, learning, and social interactions.
As nannies, we see firsthand how important play is, especially for school-aged children. With playtime shrinking within the school day, it is more crucial than ever for us to ensure children have ample opportunities to play at home, in parks, and in community spaces.
Our Commitment to Play
At the National Nanny Association, we are committed to promoting play as a fundamental part of childhood. That’s why we have introduced a brand-new section in our Members’ Area dedicated to play! Here’s what you’ll find:
- Understanding Play: The importance of play and its impact on development
- The Six Stages of Play: A breakdown of how play evolves with age
- Schematic Play: Recognizing play patterns and how to support them
- Sensory Play: Exploring textures, sounds, and movement for learning
- Different Play Approaches: From free play to guided play and structured activities
- Suggested activity Plans
We also have a treasure trove of play ideas on our Pinterest board, so be sure to check it out for even more inspiration!
Be a Play Champion
Nannies play a vital role in shaping children’s daily experiences. We encourage all our members to advocate for more play opportunities—whether that’s incorporating more free play into daily routines, speaking with parents about its importance, or supporting initiatives like this campaign.
By working together, we can help ensure that play remains a cherished and essential part of every child’s life. Let’s bring playtime back where it belongs—at the heart of childhood!