The essential areas of play at play centres
Fun and excitement form the foundation of all play centre experiences, as well as the intuitive, educational aspects that accompany them. What’s at the fore, is the particular environment that play is conducted in. At play centres specifically, there are a number of key areas that act as important venues to foster ideal cognitive and physical development.
Kylie-Jane Shannon, owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre, discusses the essential play areas that promote holistic development for children at play centres.
Sensory play areas identify and describe an environment where children’s senses are stimulated and support fine motor, emotional and cognitive development. “Sensory experiences include activities such as, play dough, drawing, and painting, as well as ball pit areas,” says Kylie. As dough is malleable, children can shape and construct objects through tactile means, and can be physically involved in creating, developing and materialising an idea. Drawing, and painting enable children to be creative as they imaginatively guide a paintbrush on paper, creating colourful and creative artworks through both tactile and visual development. Ball pit areas can facilitate fine motor skills development by children learning to throw and catch.
Dramatic play areas are great for children to develop their social, emotional and problem solving skills as well as their oral communication. Themed children’s parties also support dramatic play and skill development “At Jungle Kids, The Fairy, Pirate and Safari themed parties offered, are opportunities for children to creatively develop their imagination through the use of exciting settings and props,” says Kylie. She goes on to add that, “the concept of fun and learning co-exist effectively through dramatic play if the environment and its accompanying elements are conducive.”
A block construction play area supports the development of children’s fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, and also contributes to a sensory play aspect. Block construction also teaches children about balance, spatial awareness, judgement and perception,” says Kylie. Block construction encourages children to use their decision-making skills to fit pieces together and build supported structures as well as encouraging oral communication and learning to share and to co-construct with peers.
Play areas should be fun-filled, yet mentally and physically engaging for children’s growth and development. While there can be a place for children to use technological devices, children should be offered challenging play environments that ultimately support their overall development and health and wellbeing.
Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.
Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au. Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.
As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.
Written and syndicated by: YDMA News
