Playground Games

Playground Games PLAYGROUND GAMES Organiser’s Card About the activity This activity is designed to get children thinking about disabilities and creating games that are accessible and inclusive. Cosmic and Gem’s friend Lyra has limited vision, but would like to join in on their games. Can the investigators find some accessible games? Through this activity you will support your group to: • Learn about the effects of limited vision. • Design games taking into account the needs of different players. • Evaluate their games. Kit list PLAYGROUND GAMES • Games equipment such as bean bags, balls, cones, poles etc. • Bells and other noise makers • Torches and other lights • Ear plugs • Low-vision simulators etc. What to do 1. Read the ACTIVITY CARD to familiarise yourself with the activity. 2. Check the Kit list and ensure you have the correct resources. 3. Set the scene by discussing Lyra’s experience with the children. 4. Help children to decide what they can do to understand more about how certain games might limit access to children with disabilities. 5. Help children to collect resources. 6. Give children plenty of options when they research different inclusive sports e.g. using internet, books and leisure centre visit. 7. Ensure children think about how ideas can be tested safely.

Things to think about Visual disabilities can be experienced by using low-vision simulators. There are some suggestions for making these on the ACTIVITY CARD. Additionally you can paint different markings on goggles, block the central area of vision, block the whole lens apart from a small peep-hole or stick patches of translucent or opaque paper on the lenses. Other disabilities could be experienced by playing a game while sitting in a chair, by using ear-muffs etc. Keywords • Disability • Sports • Adaptation • Creativity • Accessibility. Watch out! Before restricting sight, hearing or movement, ensure the children are in a safe space and have appropriate support. Watch out for any children showing signs of distress. Follow your organisation’s guidelines for outdoor work. Make sure any alterations made to sports equipment are safe. British Science Association Registered Charity No. 212479 and SC039236