Neighbourhood Backyard
A neighbourhood backyard is a public space where children and their families can come to access a shared area to play and connect. In Neighbourhood Backyards, children can play with their friends in a space supervised by local qualified adults. These spaces are play sanctuaries, and the Playworkers present work hard to preserve and protect play.
THE PHILOSOPHY
“3 Frees”
1. Free to choose to participate (children come voluntarily)
2. Free (no cost) to attend
3. Free to do as you please (you can choose what activity you want to do
Children and adults report that outcomes of a neighbourhood backyard include, increasing social skills, building a sense of community, connecting to place, space and people, improving mental health, being a safe space for children, motor skill developments and opportunity to play outdoors.
The Australian Institute of Play supported the creation of Queensland’s first Neighbourhood Backyard located in Eagleby. Watch the video below to hear from the Principal from Eagleby South State School. To learn more about this Neighbourhood Backyard model in practice, head to the Joomunjie Land page here! Queensland’s second Neighbourhood Backyard has launched in Yarrabilba, and after extensive community consultation, the children have called it "Freedom Fortress".
If you are interested in creating your own neighbourhood backyard, contact us for more information!
hello@australianinstituteofplay.org
WANT HELP SETTING UP YOUR OWN?