Start to Play Guide
The Start to Play programme by Youth Sport Trust is an engaging, play-based initiative that supports the physical, social, and emotional development of babies and young children. Aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) standards, the programme encourages learning through play with innovative equipment and resources designed to foster key developmental skills.
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What is the Start to Play Programme?
The Start to Play programme combines a colourful equipment package with inspiring resources to make physical activity fun and accessible for young children. Central to the programme are the Fizz and Friends storybooks, featuring DeeDee, a cartoon version of Olympic champion Denise Lewis. These stories, paired with hands-on activities, create an immersive experience that nurtures movement, balance, and coordination.
Key Benefits of Start to Play
- Encourages Physical Development: Helps children practise essential skills such as hand-eye coordination, balance, and agility.
- Supports Holistic Growth: Promotes emotional, social, mental, and creative abilities.
- Play-Based Learning: Makes physical activity enjoyable and relatable through storytelling and interactive games.
- Inclusive Design: Available for two age groups (0-2 and 2-5 years) but adaptable for older primary-aged children.
How to Use Start to Play in Early Years Settings
- Incorporate Storytelling: Use the included storybooks and narrated audio CDs to inspire children and create engaging themes for play.
- Focus on Fundamentals: Encourage activities that develop balance, coordination, and movement skills using the equipment provided.
- Mix Free Play with Structured Activities: Allow children to explore the equipment independently while also offering guided sessions based on the activity ideas in the resources.
- Celebrate Milestones: Recognise and reward progress in physical skills to build confidence and enthusiasm.
- Adapt for Inclusivity: Modify activities for children of varying abilities to ensure everyone can participate and benefit.
Fun Fact
Did you know? Early years play significantly impacts long-term physical literacy, with studies showing that children who master fundamental movement skills early are more likely to stay active throughout their lives.
Learn More About the Start to Play Programme from Youth Sport Trust
Essential Equipment for Start to Play
- Story Kits: Includes books and audio CDs featuring Fizz and Friends to bring play to life.
- Tactile Play Items: Colourful and safe equipment to encourage balance and coordination.
- Activity Guides: Ideas for games and exercises aligned with EYFS goals.
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