New play space aims to support children's learning

A new interactive installation has been created in the grounds of a Leeds community hub to support early years learning.

The scheme at Compton Centre Community Hub and Library in Harehills is called Play Together, Talk Together, and consists of seven nature-themed elements.

According to Leeds City Council, the design was influenced by feedback from local families and produced by creative organisations Playful Anywhere and Play Explore Art.

Helen Hayden, the council's executive member for children and families, said: "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.

"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."

According to the council, each installation has different features, such as sensory panels and sound tubes, which aim to stimulate the connection between children and caregivers while also supporting early years language and communication development.

Input and support for the scheme also came from staff at the centre, the council's Leeds Libraries, 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, said: "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.

"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."

The new play space is one of a number of projects that have been delivered during the partnership between the council and Nesta, launched in 2021 and called A Fairer Start Local.

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