Space
Play transforms spaces that are given over to it- even for short periods- because play asks us to consider the resources at hand, and to make playful use of them. All spaces present challenges and opportunities for play- features that may not seem prominent, like a patch of dirt, terrain dynamics, bushes, or a fence become activated through the play process. Play claims space for its own, creating new possibilities to engage, to see, and to explore. To provide space that is truly open for play is to embrace the potential of a transformative experience.
I became interested in supporting children’s creative exploration & open-ended play through a synthesis of my experience working in Montessori environments and a play-based interest that I developed as an art practice. I have provided play opportunities to the public through a pop-up model (Play Lab) and a durational, space-bound model (Sallie Foster Adventure Playground). I believe that the ideas below- on space, materials, and support are basic to creating and maintaining a personal or organizational positioning toward play that can positively impact play experiences for children. Please see the links provided in the links section to access to resources that have influenced my perspective- I am truly in debt to the generous resources provided by the Playworking community around the world.
Support
Anyone can choose to set aside space and provide materials for children’s free and open play. Sometimes people who do this, especially those who are professionals at it are called Playworkers: “Playwork is the work of creating and maintaining spaces for children to play. The theory and practice of playwork recognises that children's play should ideally be 'freely chosen, personally directed and intrinsically motivated.'” Playworkers advocate for children to be able to play freely, and within that play, they behave in such a way as to amplify the play, and to extend it. They don’t direct it, rather, they observe and act so that the children get the most out of their experience without the dominating hand of an adult guiding their every move. They remove hazards in play environments, and contribute materials that engage. They participate when needed, and “disappear” when their presence would be destructive to a child’s own play.
Materials
Open play depends on the presence of only a few things- a space, an attitude of curiosity and willingness to follow a playful idea along. Ideas can sometimes be followed further when the materials at hand are used to amplify that which is played. Big boxes of loose-parts materials like fabric and string and sticks accompany me along to Play Lab, and the Adventure Playground has a shed full of materials that inspire new ideas or answer requirements. At the Adventure Playground, the space is filled with wooden pallets and tires and spools and sticks- all there to create dynamics in the chosen play. Tools, like scissors or mallets or saws can change a material to suit the play, creating an even more engrossing experience.