What to consider

As the playgroup becomes more established, you will begin to gather a range of equipment for different uses in the learning programme. This could include items brought from home or collected for free.

The equipment you select needs to be both fun and educational and it should be made available in a way that lets the children choose their own play activities, based on their interests.

When creating your own resources or purchasing equipment for children, remember that it needs to be:

• appealing to children
• reflective of children’s everyday lives and also provide new opportunities and challenges
• able to be used imaginatively, and in different ways
• large and strong enough not to be broken off or swallowed
• durable, washable and hygienic
• safe for children to use.

There are many natural and recyclable resources that are free and useful for play. Homemade resources can be both effective and cheap. Some businesses, for example, signwriters, carpenters, joiners or material shops may have offcuts that could provide your playgroup with some useful and fun play resources. Be discerning about the type of resources you choose.

Staff at your regional Ministry of Education office will be able to advise you on suitable quality equipment for your playgroup.

Regional offices

Storage of equipment

Storing your equipment on site can be an issue if you share the premises with other groups. You will need to consider whether there is enough secure space for your storage needs.