Interactive Play Space Launched to Aid Early Years Learning

An interactive installation designed to foster early years learning has been established at a community hub in Leeds. This initiative, named Play Together, Talk Together, is located at the Compton Centre Community Hub and Library in Harehills and comprises seven elements with nature themes. Leeds City Council stated that the design incorporated input from local families and was developed by the creative organizations Playful Anywhere and Play Explore Art. Helen Hayden, the council’s executive member for children and families, commented: “I’m so pleased to see this scheme making a positive difference by supporting early years learning, bringing people together and, most importantly, putting smiles on young faces.” She added: “Together we made sure children, families and caregivers had a central role in the development and design of these installations, which I hope will be a much-loved part of local life for years to come.” The council indicated that each installation incorporates distinct features, including sensory panels and sound tubes. These features are intended to enhance the bond between children and caregivers, concurrently aiding in early years language and communication development. Additional contributions and backing for the initiative were provided by staff from the centre, Leeds Libraries, the council’s children’s services and public health teams, and the Children’s Speech and Language Therapy Service at the Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust. Mary Harland, executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, stated: “We want our city to be a place where people of all ages feel a sense of belonging and are encouraged to make the most of their talents and potential.” She further explained: “One way we can do this is by listening to children and better understanding the needs of their families and caregivers, and then taking that learning and using it as the foundation for inclusive, engaging projects such as Play Together, Talk Together.” This new play area is among several projects implemented through the collaboration between the council and Nesta, a partnership initiated in 2021 under the name A Fairer Start Local.