


The 17-second rule & the importance of risky play
Learn why risky play is so important for kids and try this useful tip to keep yourself from jumping in to intervene (we know it’s hard!).

Canadian Paediatric Society recommends risky play for kids
Risky and unstructured play have a crucial role in the physical, mental, and social development of children, says the Canadian Paediatric Society.

Risky play is for toddlers too
Risky play isn’t only important older children! Learn about the benefits of risky play for toddlers, as well as ways they can participate in it.

How to handle risky play when your child’s friends aren’t allowed
Just because we allow our children to engage in risky play doesn’t mean the parents of our kids’ friends will feel the same way.

Why I love watching my kids engage in risky play outdoors
There’s a steep hill in our local forest that my kids (ages one, four, and six) love to scale. It’s muddy, slippery, and full of tree roots, with ample opportunities to fall, get up, and fall again. I absolutely love watching them challenge themselves to do this, because I can see how it builds their … Continued

What to do when you and your partner disagree about risky play
I’m a risk-taker, while my husband is much more risk-averse. The lifeguard approach to risky play can help reduce conflict between you and your partner.

Active for Life podcast: Dr. Mariana Brussoni on the value of risky play
Risky play can be an intimidating concept for parents and caregivers to try to implement with their children. How much risk is too much? How can play remain safe? Dr. Mariana Brussoni recognizes the dilemma. In fact, she’s an expert on the subject. Her research focuses on caregivers’ perceptions of risk and safety when it … Continued

Does your child care centre encourage risky play? Here’s why it should
What to look for in a child care centre

How to create a “risky play” backyard playground
Use your backyard, and imagination, to explore

Encouraging risky play is becoming more common worldwide
More are recognizing the benefits of risky play

Stop talking about “risky play” for kids and use “adventurous” instead
Understanding the difference between objective and perceived risk

Be a lifeguard to your child’s “risky” play
Risky play is necessary for healthy child development. Here’s some advice for how how parents can assess risk in their children’s play.

6 ways kids should engage in “risky” play
Your child gets ready to jump from the monkey bars and you get ready for a trip to the hospital. Is this a reasonable reaction? Unless there’s a pit of poisonous serpents or a bed of nails below, probably not. As Dr. Mariana Brussoni of the University of British Columbia points out, statistics show that … Continued

15 hidden treasures on our website to spark your child’s love of active play
Whether you’re a parent, educator, coach, or someone who interacts with kids in any other of a multitude of ways, there’s so much here for you on Active for Life. Check out this collection of ways to get kids moving.

Why children need risk, fear, and excitement in play—and why adults’ fears put them at risk
Child-development expert Mariana Brussoni shares why adventurous, risky play is so important for kids—especially today.

Celebrating the first International Day of Play
In 2024, the first-ever International Day of Play will be observed and celebrated on June 11. For children, this is big news.

The importance of active play in the early years
Active play plays an essential role in kids’ development, and early years educators are uniquely positioned to incorporate active play.

How to make your backyard into an active play space
Transform your backyard into an active play space for your kids! Get practical tips and creative ideas to encourage outdoor fun and physical activity.

20 outdoor sensory play activities for young children + free printable
You don’t need fancy equipment for sensory play! Everything your kids need for engaging sensory play can be found outside.

The power of play: Why outdoor child-led movement at school is important
The Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) program helps to increase opportunities for child-directed outdoor play throughout the school day.

Parachute’s 2021 campaign encourages safe adventurous outdoor play
Parachute’s Safe Kids Week runs from May 30 to June 5 this year, and the theme is #PlaySafeOutdoors. Here’s how to take part.

Say yes to adventure: How to be a partner in your child’s daring play
As parents, it can be anxiety-inducing to watch our children take part in risky play. These tips will help you to support and encourage them.

Thrive Outside: New resource supports outdoor learning and play
The resource, from the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada, offers tips and support for parents and teachers to explore nature with kids year-round.

Thinking of buying a backyard play set? Read this first
A backyard play set is a great way to nudge kids to get outdoors and have fun. Before you buy, check out these tips.