Barnard Castle Preparatory School is using playtime to good effect as pupils immerse themselves in childhood creativity.
Fancy dress, all manner of props and a host of games are the order of the day with children enjoying creative play without a digital device in sight.
Barnard Castle Preparatory School deputy head teacher Sarah Leonard said: “I wish everyone could sneak into school at certain times of the week and today was definitely one of those moments – playtime.
“We have been enhancing play with fancy dress, a range of hats and an array of props, and the imaginative play that has unfolded has been truly wonderful to see. There is something incredibly special about watching children immerse themselves so fully in their own creativity.”
She said that some people felt play belonged mainly in the Early Years, but she couldn’t disagree more.
“Even as adults, we instinctively seek out opportunities to play,” Mrs Leonard said. “We simply call them our hobbies. Play sits at the very heart of a child’s development, from ages four to 11. It is through play that children explore, understand and begin to make sense of the world around them.
“In these moments, they develop their thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills, while also building language, confidence and the ability to communicate with others. It is also through play that they learn some of life’s most important lessons, such as how to share, negotiate, form friendships and understand their own emotions.
“Play supports both physical development and emotional wellbeing, giving children the freedom to take risks, make choices and experience success. Most importantly, it fosters a genuine love of learning, laying the foundations for curious, resilient and confident individuals, which is what we value so much here at Barney.”
