Playtime Just Got Better

Playtime for our supported playgroup is even more fun now thanks to the generous donation from the Community Enterprise Foundation in Partnership with the East Ivanhoe Community Bank.

The purchase of outdoor play equipment and the development of the outside garden area alongside the children’s space at Banyule Community Health Centre will enable children to play outside regardless of the weather.

The new garden and outside play areas provide space for a range of activities and sensory experiences for children to explore. Facilities include; a sandpit, vegetable patch and water tank, red gum seats, gravel pathways all set against the sandstone wall. The planting of hardy native trees, shrubs and grasses will provide year round beauty and shade as they develop. The specialised rubber surface will protect them from falls as they run, ride and climb. There is cover from the sun and rain so children can use the area year round.

Playgroup co-ordinator Karen Dalley said, “The addition of the garden means that children are able to actively engage in a meaningful connection to learning in the outdoors.” Children learn through play it allows them to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity and physical, cognitive and emotional strength. Play is also important for healthy brain development and helps children build new competencies and confidence as they grow.

Manager of Community Programs for BCH Mick Geary is delighted with the garden development. “It’s important for kids and their families to feel comfortable. The garden belongs to them, so its important that we invest in families and the resources we use to support them,” said Mr Geary.

The children love the garden as you can see from the photos the children are already exploring and having loads of fun.