National Minimum Standards for Regulated Day Care - Open Access Play for children aged 5 years to 12 years: statutory guidance - Audience and overview
Standards of care open access play providers must meet to look after children age 5 years to 12 years.
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Standard 18: Equipment
Child’s Voice: There are things to play with that are safe, fun and help me use my imagination
Well-being Outcome: Children enjoy open-ended, engaging resources that inspire play, imagination and experimentation.
The registered person is responsible for ensuring that:
18.1 Furniture, equipment and toys are provided which are appropriate for their purpose and help to create an accessible and stimulating environment. They are of suitable design and condition, well maintained and conform to relevant Toys (Safety) Requirements where applicable.
18.2 Sufficient suitable toys and play materials are available to provide stimulating activities and play opportunities for the children in all areas of play. These are appropriate for the ages and individual developmental needs of the children attending and promote their cultural awareness and equal opportunities.
18.3 Where public spaces are used, the children do not use faulty playground equipment. They are of suitable design, condition and are well maintained.
18.4 Consideration is given to children’s safety when undertaking activities including additional equipment that may be needed e.g. for outdoor and sporting activities. During water sports, adequate lifesaving equipment and buoyancy aids are provided.
To assist providers, the principal regulatory requirements underpinning this standard are outlined below, followed by relevant guidance. Providers should note that neither list is exhaustive, and that providers must have regard to all standards relevant to their service and the circumstances concerned.
Related Regulations
Further Guidance
Statutory Guidance in support of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 - GOV.UK
Promoting physical activity through outdoor play
Developing and managing play spaces
Creating accessible play spaces - a toolkit
Managing Risk in Play Provision: A Position Statement
Managing Risk in Play Provision: Implementation Guide
Risk Benefit Assessment Form - Blank
Risk Benefit Assessment Form - Worked Example
Weighing up risks and benefits in children's play