Playtimes and lunchtimes are known for creating behaviour issues, with the aftermath of these often continuing long into the classroom, causing disruption and lost learning time. We know this happens, but have you ever carried out an audit to see what the flags are on your playground provision and what can be improved? In this blog, we will look at the impact playtimes can have on behaviour, how they can be improved and where you can find our Active Playground Audit.
What Impact Do Playtimes Have On Children’s Behaviour?
The main issue on the playground for children is boredom and a lack of stimulation. Both of which have a direct link to increased incidents of bullying. Boredom also leads to fall-outs and first aid incidents as the children seek alternative methods of entertainment. As mentioned above, issues at play times are often not left on the playground and eke into class learning, which can impact on children’s learning and engagement level.
How Can Behaviour On The Playground Be Improved?
- Physical activity is incredibly powerful for improving behaviour, so ensuring your playground has as many opportunities to be active as possible is vital for keeping your children engaged.
- Cater for all interests. Some children love having the release of being competitive during their break times, whereas others prefer having quiet, calm time or time to talk and socialise with friends. Could you have an area for sport, an area for games and an area for quiet activities such as reading or puzzles?
- Provide CPD for your welfare staff so they are confident with dealing with any behaviour issues themselves so they are not carrying over into the classroom for you to manage.
- Give the children equipment to use the right way. Children will play football no matter what resources are available, be that using a plastic bottle or a shoe! If you provide the correct resources, the children will play better and there will be less call for adult interruptions for safe play.
Active Playground Audit
A really effective way of finding out the areas your playground needs to improve is by carrying out an audit. Both the adults working on the playground and the children in your school should be asked for their opinions on questions such as: activities on offer, safety on the playground and experiences behaviour. We have template audits for both staff and children in our Ultimate PE Leader Pack, take a look!
If you are looking for new ways to increase physical activity on your playground, check out our Active Playground Pack!
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