Two of the many highlights in a typical school day are break times when all Primary children can be outside on the playground. The spacious facilities at LIS provide many possibilities for children to indulge in their natural urge to move and express bottled up energy following the learning input in class.
Running, playing tag, football, climbing and fast paced fantasy games provide children the opportunity to recharge while promoting coordination, balance, stamina and further physical development. The sound of the Playground Buddies bell welcomes everyone to join in an assortment of games for children of all ages promoting an inclusive environment. This provides an opportunity for children to develop new friendships and to take a risk by trying out something new.
Active participation at break time also promotes personal, social and emotional development as children engage in making decisions, solving problems and challenging themselves. Independently choosing their space and how they want to spend their time during break, the children are empowered to make their own decisions and pursue their own interests. They initiate play, expressing their individuality and uniqueness, set rules and boundaries and take responsibility for their actions. Through interaction with peers, the children develop social skills and grow in confidence.
Inside break, due to bad weather, is a challenge for the children restricting them to remain in class with limited activities and no real opportunity to release energy. However, on these rainy days, Hort offers the Active Space and Games Room as an alternative space during lunch break on a rotating system.
Whether break time is a fast paced chasing games or simply having time to interact with peers, when the whistle blows, the children quickly line up for class, energised and refreshed for the next part of the school day.
Jayne Käthner
Hort Educator