Inclusive Play

FLIPA - Fun Learning through Inclusive Play Activators Programme

After the success of the Active Pilot Play Programme, in collaboration with Active Sparks, the FLIPA (Fun Learning through Inclusive Play Activators) Programme has been developed.  The aim is to provide quality experiences and increased opportunities for physically, visually and hearing impaired tamariki to be active in play across the Bay of Plenty.  This Programme will continually develop as we review, learn and reflect.

FLIPA is a free 4 week programme designed to provide quality experiences and increased opportunities for tamariki with disabilities.  We invite non-disabled tamariki to participate as buddies.  Our organisation focuses primarily on people with physical and/or visual/hearing impairments but we welcome tamariki with other disabilities to participate in the programme if they can cope.

As well as providing more play opportunities for tamariki with disabilities, FLIPA provides an opportunity to raise awareness amongst all participating tamariki and develop their confidence to play with tamariki with disabilities.  It challenges participants' to think about how they may adapt their play.  Participating staff discover ways to adapt as well as getting an insight into some of the adaptive sports that can be played.  We invite all participants to be inclusive play advocates and champion play where possible.

As part of the programme there is a 30 minutes Inclusive Play Session available with as many staff at the school as possible, even if they are not currently working with tamariki with disabilities. It's an opportunity to provide Personal Development so when they do work with disabled tamariki they are better equipped to do so. This can be done online if this is easier.

There is also the opportunity, for all schools across the BOP region, to connect online every month to share stories, ask questions etc.

Not only has the programme been developed to be delivered within schools, we have been including play into our other activities e.g Adaptive Surfing sessions became Family Beach Fun Days.

After the first delivery at Arataki School this feedback was received from Rachael Buller - Specialist Teacher :

• "Thanks again Jo, we had a great experience on Thursday. Session one special highlights included: 
• Seeing all the smiles - students and staff! 
• Seeing all children voluntarily joining in,  trying different activities. 
• Having a balance of structured and free play time. 
• The show casing of possible resources we could purchase for the students. 
• The children being able to reflect and communicate their favourite activity. "

If you would like your School to be involved or you would like more information about FLIPA please contact Jo Jackson.