Making Space for Play

Play ties into every aspect of a child’s life - it’s physical, cognitive, social, and it's emotional.  

“Play is everything to a child. It’s how they learn, it’s how they distinguish good from bad, it’s how they view the world. They can act out scenarios safely, and take risks,” says Maryann, The North Grove’s Child Development Coordinator. 

“It’s how they build an awareness of themselves, and of others. They build social skills, and play helps them develop confidence and self-esteem,” adds Maria, Early Childhood Educator at The North Grove. 

That's why having space to play is so important, but The North Grove’s Child Development team has noticed a decline in play post-pandemic, and as families lead increasingly busy lives. 

Join us to learn about how we make space for play, in our environment, and in our lives. 

A space designed for play 

“We follow the lead of the children and build on their interests. Inspiration in the space and for programs always comes from children.” 

Welcome to The North Grove’s playroom! Everything is intentional–thoughtfully selected by the Child Development team to help children feel safe, connected, and to ignite their imaginations. 

Maria explains that each section of the space has a role and offers different opportunities for children and families to interact and play. 

The doorway is the transition space, so we try to make it as welcoming as possible. The fish tank is right there–it’s comforting to observe. Just to the left is the sensory play area, which gently draws children in and engages all their senses. 

The Dramatic Centre allows children to role play and explore real-life scenarios. Dramatic play creates opportunities for language development, socialization, and collaboration. The play themes change monthly, following the interests of the children. 

“We recently noticed the children were taking care of the stuffed animals during play time, so we knew the vet clinic would be the next theme we introduce,” says Maryann. 

The carpet is where we have circle time, and parents often sit down with their children and explore the bookshelf, the felt board, building blocks, and play equipment. There is always an invitation for art at the program table, and each craft is planned with care, and often presents an opportunity to learn about the world, culture and special dates–like Diwali, Lunar New Year, and Indigenous Peoples Day. 

There is also a playdough table at the back of the space where families sit together and enjoy quieter play with Child Development’s homemade playdough! 

Playing in thoughtfully planned environments enriches children’s awareness of themselves and others. Intentional reflection of diversity and real-life objects and stories help them develop empathy, curiosity, and acceptance of other perspectives. 

Space to be themselves 

Styles of play are unique and can tell us a lot about our children. They express their natural curiosity through free play and choose activities that fulfil them. You can see from a young age which children prefer physical activities, and which are more artistically inclined. 

Some children are very imaginative and enjoy dramatic play, while others prefer quiet problem solving, observing the world around them, and piecing the puzzle together. Others show natural leadership abilities or love working as a team, while some prefer to play independently.  

91% of parents say their child feels at home and comfortable being themselves at The North Grove. 

“We very rarely experience behavioural issues in our Child Development programs,” says Maryann. “Children feel safe in this space, and they have so much freedom of choice in their play.” 

“My son feels like there is a place for him at The North Grove. He has less anxiety being away from me.” - Program Participant 

Space for parents 

Much of our Child Development programming is child-parent interactive. Baby & Me, Family Playgroup, and child-parent cooking programs and more are among the opportunities for children and parents to learn and play together. Staff make space for parents to learn without judgement by role modelling and supporting them in their parenting decisions. 

“Some parents, especially new parents, don’t know how to play with their children, or how to find delight in them,” says Maryann. “Learning about their children through play can help parents support them in activities and areas where they shine.” 

Observing other parents interacting with their children also provides opportunities for participants to learn and emulate qualities and parenting techniques that work for them. 

Parents can observe their children interacting with other children. They can learn more about their personalities and support them in healthy social and emotional development. 

“I am able to see my child interact with other kids. They are able to learn a lot from each other.” - Program Participant 

Space to thrive 

The positive impacts of play during childhood, from physical health to mental health to social skills and confidence, will stay with a child throughout their lifetime. So, ensuring children have safe spaces to play--at home, at school, or here at The North Grove, is essential to building a thriving community. 

If you would like to learn more about child-parent interactive programs at The North Grove, check-out the program calendar on our website, give us a call (902-464-8234 ext. 0) or drop-in to our front desk during open hours.