To ask the Scottish Executive which of its current policies and strategies refer specifically to the importance of children’s play or supporting children’s play.
The Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5 recognises the powerful contribution that play makes to children’s learning. The curriculum review will extend the approach used in pre-school to the initial stages of primary, emphasising the importance of opportunities for children to learn through purposeful, well-planned play.
The Executive’s Childcare Strategy stresses the importance of ample opportunities for sporting activities and play, and this is reinforced by the National Care Standards for early education and childcare up to the age of 16, which require that activities provided by staff will allow children and young people to enjoy both organised and free play. The recent expansion of out of school care provision allows increased opportunities for safe and rewarding play and activities for school age children.
Active play and physical activity for older children is being promoted through the Active Schools programme.
Under the Physical Activity Strategy, the Executive is funding a development worker to promote the play@home scheme. A scheme designed to increase parents/carers confidence in handling their babies, and to develop skills in helping children learn through creative play.
A draft Scottish Planning Policy 11 will shortly be issued for consultation. The consultation draft will include national minimum open space standards for provision within certain types of new development.