RSA brief:
Press Play
How might we support all families, carers and communities to play and learn more creatively at home?
This brief was created by LEGO.
The Problem
Children from lower income families are not given the same ‘home-learning’ experience than those from higher incomes, and often feel like they have no place to work or play. Parents are not equipped to encourage learning through play and aren’t aware of the benefits, preventing freedom and growth for children.
Proposition
A method to unite school and home learning that provides equal opportunities for all 4-7 year olds through the power of play.
The brand
PlayReady remodels the connection between schools and the home by setting a new culture of learning through play. Visually, it is a brand filled with bright colours and shapes to ignite joy and represent play, inclusivity and adaptability. Practically, it empowers learning through play for children from all incomes and unites parents and teachers.
Icons
Clear icons were deseigned and developed to represent elements of the PlayReady concept. The bottom row of icons was chosen because they felt fun and easy to understand by the target audience.
Assets
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Method
A three-step method creates a play culture. It will be established in schools and carried into the home, equipping parents with the same resources and language as in the classroom.
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Bandana
The bandana is used to symbolise when a child is in ‘play world’. This empowers children to learn through play, bringing freedom and a sense of safety. The bandana also indicates if the child wants to play independently or with others.
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Posters
To be successful in the home, a culture highlighting the importance of ‘learning through play’ must be established in schools. Time will be scheduled in the week to use the PlayReady method and bandana, and it will be used as their home-learning.
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Prompt cards
All activities have prompts and hints but give full creative freedom for the child to interpret. There are activities designed for individual play as well as collaborative play which is indicated on the card. Every activity is designed to be accessible for all incomes.
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“I would love if my children’s school had this in place”
Emily, mum of 3
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“Such a great idea. It enables me to create a routine around play time and to set boundaries when play time is over.”
Gemma, single mother
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“This would make play time at home less intimidating to me”
Rachel, mum of 3
