PROVISION FOR PLAY

Evening Post, Volume CIII, Issue 3, 5 January 1922, Page 6

PROVISION FOR PLAY

An interesting experiment, new to Wellington, is being tried at the Baiiin Reserve to-day. It is in the nature of organised play for children of all ages under direction and' oversight It is being tried by the Women's National Council, which has the successful experiences of London and some other large cities! to j;o by. It must be patent, to all who think, that anything that will benefit the children in healthful recreation will become a profitable moral investment for the commun-! ity. It is a curious fact character-' istk of children living in spacious suburbs or in congested areas that the open street possesses .an irresistible attraction for- them.: There is in the street, of course,; something always going on, from a 1 fallen horse to a steam roller in operation. .But the street is not: the best or safest place for children to play in, interesting as it may be. Wellington is often charged: with being sadly wanting in open: spaces for children, but a close examination in.to. the facts will show: that it is not so very badly off in this respect. Besides, there are but few cities having, almoßt in: their centre, as it were, a playable waterfront like Oriental Bay. '.'' At; the same time there is the natural reluctarice v of many parents, especially of girls, to let children loose1 in parks and recreation grounds. Hero is where the Women's National Council comes into the case with, sound reasons for i practical help from the public. Its chief ob-' ject is to give children of all.* ages" scope and facilities for play .on more or less organised lines, with someone to keep an eye on them and to direct them in their ; play. The lady appointed for this work has had practical experience in California. All* the scheme, now needs is a playing' place open every day, and the strong backing of the public in money and in personal assistance. ■ " .*