Wirral parks reveal new activity boards to encourage children to learn through play

Play activity boards have been revealed in Mersey Park, Birkenhead and Victoria Park, Rock Ferry.

They join Central Park, Liscard and New Ferry Park, New Ferry in hosting a suite of interactive activity boards for children.

The project, called ‘Invitation to Play’, aims to create resources in the community to prompt ‘learning through play’.

Each activity board features the ‘Play Pack’ characters; Freddie Fox, Hana Hedgehog and Olly Owl, who share play ideas with families to try in the park and ideas to carry on at home. They also include key information for the adults, sharing why play is important and how it helps their children learn and develop.

The installation in Mersey and Victoria Park is the latest phase in a plan to roll out boards and activities across Wirral. The scheme has been developed, in consultation with local families.

Cllr Kathy Hodson, Chair of Wirral’s Children Young People & Education Committee, said: “It’s a joy to see the Play Pack expanding into more of our parks in Wirral. The installations contain play-based prompts for games and activities for our young people to do with their families and care givers.

“Encouraging positive interactions, learning and independence, the boards – now available in four local parks – are designed to be accessible whether you’re visiting a park or just passing through.

“I would encourage families with younger members to head down to one of the parks and try them out.”

Anne Parker, local director at Foundation Years Trust, said: “Providing opportunities for children and their parents’ to play and interact together is a great way to support children in gaining the skills they will need for life.

“It’s a chance for our young people and little ones to build priceless social skills, gain confidence and explore their own imaginations, all while enjoying some fresh air in the park too.”