Active Early Years Guide
Active play in the early years lays the foundation for physical, cognitive, and social development. By focusing on fundamental movement skills and multi-ability development, schools and nurseries can create a fun, engaging environment that supports lifelong learning and physical literacy.
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Youth Sport Trust’s ‘Active Play’
Active Play is an innovative programme designed to introduce young children to a multi-skilled approach to learning through movement. Developed in alignment with curriculum practices, it supports key areas of development:
- Creative: Encouraging imagination and problem-solving.
- Cognitive: Building thinking and decision-making skills.
- Social: Promoting teamwork and communication.
- Physical: Developing strength, coordination, and balance.
- Personal: Boosting confidence and independence.
Aligned with the Long-Term Athlete Development Framework, Active Play provides enabling, extension, and enrichment opportunities for young learners in various settings.
Jump for Joy Frolic
Jump for Joy Frolic is specially designed for nursery-age children (1-4 years). It’s more than just soft play—this equipment actively promotes agility, balance, and coordination. Endorsed by British Gymnastics, Frolic provides a safe yet challenging environment to help young children build essential skills.
Key Features:
- Activity programmes included to guide and support non-specialists.
- Focus on physical literacy through structured play.
- Pieces can be used individually or combined to create exciting play areas.
Magic Carpet Set:
A complete set of Frolic pieces designed to offer a versatile and engaging soft play environment for nurseries.
Benefits of Active Early Years Play
- Physical Development: Improves balance, coordination, and motor skills.
- Social Skills: Encourages interaction, teamwork, and communication.
- Cognitive Growth: Develops problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Confidence Building: Provides opportunities for personal achievement and positive reinforcement.
- Foundation for Sport: Prepares children for long-term athletic development through fundamental movement skills.
How to Introduce Active Play in Early Years Settings
- Start Small: Use soft play equipment like Jump for Joy Frolic to create safe, accessible environments.
- Encourage Exploration: Allow children to interact freely with equipment to spark creativity and problem-solving.
- Integrate Structured Activities: Use programmes like Active Play to guide sessions and ensure holistic development.
- Promote Inclusivity: Adapt activities to ensure every child can participate, regardless of ability.
- Celebrate Milestones: Reward progress to build confidence and engagement.
Fun Fact
Did you know? Research shows that children who develop fundamental movement skills in their early years are more likely to participate in physical activity throughout their lives!
Learn More About Early Years Physical Development from Youth Sport Trust
Essential Equipment for Active Early Years
- Soft Play Kits: Jump for Joy Frolic for agility, balance, and coordination.
- Parachutes and Play Packs: For group activities that promote teamwork and creativity.
- Balance and Coordination Tools: Equipment that supports physical literacy, such as stepping stones or balance beams.
- Activity Guides: Resources to help structure and monitor play sessions effectively.
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