Children in Newry, Mourne and Down enjoy a summer of play | News in Newry
Children across the council area have been enjoying a summer of play at free outdoor play sessions delivered by PlayBoard NI in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
Running in seven locations throughout July and August, the highlight of the fully booked sessions has been celebrating Playday, the national day for play on 3 August at Down Leisure Centre, Downpatrick.
The play programme which is supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), offers local children aged 4 to 11 years, the opportunity to create positive relationships through play.
The sessions include playing with loose parts (free and found materials), arts and crafts, den building, team games and much more.
Highlighting the importance of play, Alan Herron, PlayBoard CEO says, “As the lead organisation for the development of children and young people’s play in Northern Ireland, PlayBoard is delighted to be continuing our work with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council creating opportunities for children to play.”
Speaking about Playday, Alan says, “Play is important every day, but especially on Playday when children, young people and communities across the UK come together to celebrate the many positive impacts of play on children’s lives.
“Holding play sessions across the council area on Playday and throughout the summer allows local children to spend time with their friends outdoors, experience new ways to play in their communities helping them feel connected, and most importantly, to have fun.
“Play is essential for a happy, healthy childhood.
“And we encourage adults and communities to allow children and young people the time and space to play, not just on Playday but every day.”
Councillor Michael Savage, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council says, “It is great to be here today, on national Playday, to see schemes such as the FreePlay projects, which are being delivered across our district over the summer months, giving the young people in our community a superb opportunity to come together in the world of play, to make new friends and to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.
He adds, “The FreePlay projects, funded by the Special EU Programs Body (SEUPB) and being brilliantly delivered by PlayBoard NI, have provided children with a safe place to learn and grow in play.”
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