At a time when children's physical activity is decreasing and digital entertainment is taking over, encouraging children to play and explore in environments that allow them to take risks and develop their abilities is of utmost importance. Make a Move organized a workshop on the topic of risky play in Mölndal.
Principals, educators and representatives from Mölndal City's technical administration focused a full day on risky play under the auspices of Make a Move, led by Ahmed Al-Breihi and Xinga Li from the organization Riskful play. They shared theoretical insights on risky play and its positive effects on child development.
"Children today are becoming increasingly restricted in their play and movement by an increased focus on safety from us adults. This obviously affects the child's development through reduced individual risk-taking. The fact that we adults use risky play as an approach when we support and guide children contributes to several positive effects: motor and cognitive development, increased self-confidence and self-determination. There is a fine balance between being as safe as possible or as safe as necessary. Children today deserve the same conditions for play, development and tickle-in-the-stomach experiences that we had when we were young", says Emelie Lilja from RF-SISU Västra Götaland.
In the afternoon, theory turned into practice when participants moved to Balltorpsskolan in Mölndal. Here they were able to evaluate outdoor play environments and explore creative ways to promote risky play. Ideas were exchanged and understanding grew of the importance of allowing children to take risks in their play.
"I hope that we bring a lot of inspiration and curiosity about how people in different professional roles can implement risky play in our businesses. I look forward to stronger collaboration at all levels - from direct operations to decision-makers - after this day." says Emelie Lilja.
Want to know more about how you can integrate risky play into your activities? Visit the Riskful Play website for further information and resources to help you promote children's development and confidence through play.
Photo: Kemal Memedov
