In both primary and secondary schools, character education has become a key focus. Its aim is to teach children the positive values, ethical behaviour and social skills that are essential for personal and social development. While some aspects are taught in PSCHE lessons, others are embedded in the school’s values, policies and procedures. In this post, we examine the important role that the school playground can make in providing opportunities for character education.
Teamwork
One of the ways school playgrounds can be used for character education is by promoting the value of teamwork. Playgrounds provide an opportunity for children to engage in team sports and group activities, which require cooperation and collaboration. By participating in these activities, children learn how to work together towards a common goal, communicate effectively and respect each other’s abilities and opinions. They also learn the importance of taking turns, sharing and compromising. These skills are essential for success not only on the playground but also in the classroom and later in life.
Respect and responsibility
Playgrounds provide opportunities for children to interact with their peers and develop social skills. This makes it an ideal place to teach them respect and responsibility for themselves, others and the school environment. By giving them free play with less supervision, but with clear rules about behaviour in place, children can learn to take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that result from them.
Diversity and inclusion
Nowhere else in school do children get to mix with so many of their peers and with such freedom than in the playground. As a result, it’s the ideal place for pupils to learn about diversity and inclusion. Through socialising and playing together, children have the opportunity to engage with, interact with and learn from those from different backgrounds. As children learn to appreciate and respect different cultures, beliefs and abilities, they begin to celebrate differences and find common ground with their peers. As a result, diversity and inclusion are not just promoted within the school, but across the wider community.
Perseverance and resilience
Life is full of ups and downs and it’s important that children develop a mindset that helps them continue to make progress after a setback. In the playground, pupils can engage in a range of physical activities that require effort, problem-solving and determination. By setting goals and pushing to achieve them, they can discover the value of perseverance and the rewards of hard work. They also learn how to handle failure and develop resilience.
Empathy and compassion
Another important aspect of character education that can be taught in school playgrounds is empathy and compassion. Through playing and socialising in the playground, children can observe and interact with each other, helping them to better understand the feelings and perspectives of others. As a result, children can learn to be kind, caring and considerate, while understanding the importance of helping others and being a positive influence in their community.
Playground equipment that facilitates character education
To provide the best opportunities for character education, it is important to consider the types of playground equipment that can facilitate it. One important type is team sports equipment, such as sports markings, basketball hoops or football goals. Playing team sports requires children to work together, communicate and strategize in order to achieve a common goal. By participating, pupils can learn valuable skills, such as cooperation, respect for others and the importance of shared success.
Playground equipment that encourages physical challenges is also beneficial for promoting character education. Climbing frames, trim trails obstacle courses and other types of equipment that require physical effort and determination can teach children not just about perseverance and resilience, but also how to take risks and develop self-confidence.
When it comes to empathy and compassion, imaginative play equipment is ideal. Play huts, mud kitchens and shop kiosks, for example, can provide opportunities to engage in role play activities, from which children can learn about different perspectives and develop empathy for others.
Finally, playgrounds that are designed to accommodate children with different abilities, such as those with wheelchair-accessible equipment, can promote inclusion and teach children to appreciate and respect diversity.
Conclusion
School playgrounds provide a unique opportunity for character education. By promoting teamwork, respect, responsibility, perseverance, diversity, inclusion, empathy and compassion, children can learn valuable skills and values that will help them become responsible and productive members of society. To effectively incorporate character education into school playgrounds, it is important, however, to have the equipment that facilitates learning and encourages participation.
If you are looking for outdoor play equipment to help deliver character education in your school, visit our Products page.
