Active Play & Exercise Guide
Active play and exercise are essential for fostering physical literacy, confidence, and social interaction among children. Through a variety of fun, inclusive activities, schools, clubs, and families can encourage young people to move, play, and develop key physical skills in an enjoyable and engaging way.
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SAFABALL®
The SAFABALL® range is ideal for introducing children to ball games safely and confidently.
- Key Features: Lightweight, inflatable, and made of foamed vinyl.
- Why It’s Great: The soft, low-sting tactile surface makes them safe and easy to handle, reducing fear and encouraging participation.
- Perfect For: Early years, beginners, and inclusive play across various sports.
Activate®
The Activate® range is specifically designed for the demands of the education market.
- Key Features: Durable cellular rubber for a softer feel.
- Why It’s Great: Helps build confidence in ball-handling skills while being tough enough to withstand vigorous use.
- Perfect For: Schools introducing ball sports like basketball, football, and netball to younger players.
Jump for Joy Move & Play
Jump for Joy Move & Play, endorsed by British Gymnastics, offers large-scale apparatus designed to safely challenge young learners.
- Key Features: Encourages poise, balance, and physical literacy through structured activities.
- Why It’s Great: Includes activity programmes and a support pack, making it easy for non-specialists to monitor and reward progress.
- Perfect For: Schools and community groups focusing on physical development for children with basic movement skills.
Parachute Games
Parachute games offer endless possibilities for fun, teamwork, and physical activity.
- Key Features: Packs include everything needed to start activity programmes.
- Why It’s Great: Parachute play is inclusive, engaging, and promotes social skills while being a great form of active exercise.
- Perfect For: Schools, clubs, and families looking to encourage group participation and creativity.
How to Encourage Active Play in Schools
- Start Small: Introduce simple games with SAFABALL® or Activate® balls to build confidence.
- Use Structured Programmes: Implement activities from Jump for Joy Move & Play or parachute games to teach balance, coordination, and teamwork.
- Encourage Creativity: Let children invent their own games using parachutes or balls to inspire imagination and problem-solving.
- Promote Inclusivity: Use soft and safe equipment like SAFABALL® to ensure everyone can participate comfortably.
- Celebrate Progress: Use reward schemes to recognise improvement in skills and teamwork.
Fun Fact
Did you know? Parachute play originated as a form of group therapy in the 1950s and has since evolved into a staple of school and recreational activities, fostering cooperation and joy worldwide!
Essential Equipment for Active Play
- Soft Balls: SAFABALL® and Activate® ranges for confidence-building.
- Large Apparatus: Jump for Joy Move & Play for safe, structured physical challenges.
- Parachutes: Packs for group play and imaginative games.
- Activity Kits: Comprehensive sets for structured programmes.
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