THREAD: Adventure Play. On the last day of July, in 35 degree heat, I finally got to step away from video calls to make my first site visit of the summer, starting with the green sanctuary that is Evergreen Adventure Playground.
#Hackney

Within minutes of arrival, I had my temperature checked, my name added to a personal paper cup filled with cold water, and an introduction to the outdoor summer play scheme. But as any adult chatting in the company of children knows, the formalities can only last so long.

One child was determined to include me in a water fight. So cooling! Another loudly insisted on a visit to the pond to find froglets. And find them we did! My hosts presented the obstacle course, and my inner twelve-year old jumped clumsily to it.

Evergreen usually sees 120-150 children per day during the summer, but this year is different. Different groups of around 15 children attend each morning and each afternoon. Children remain in their dedicated group throughout the summer, and stick with a scheduled rota.

An element of risk is fundamental to an adventure playground, but it is a calculated risk set against the reward of successfully leaping from log to log, achieving a tricky climb, experiencing the thrill of discovery, and sharing the wealth of unlimited imagination.

For the managers of play settings, COVID-19 brings added risk assessment and pressure but the rewards are even more incredible. During my visit I got to see children of different ages, abilities and educational needs, free of care and immersed in play.

The regular team of playworkers who gathered around this Friday afternoon group of children, through all the heat, excitement, cheek and banter, shone with pride for this special place and the work they do.