Lochaber youngsters are getting the chance to have a say on play facilities in their areas.
Highland Council is in the process of developing a Playpark Strategy and would love children to be at the heart of the conversation.
To steer it in the right direction the children will be asked how they want to play in the future and what they want to see in their local playparks.
Parents and caregivers are also being asked to complete a questionnaire to capture their views.
Playparks support children in learning to develop adult skills such as negotiating, communication, building positive relationships, creativity, teamwork, problem solving, resilience, knowing how to have fun, and community belonging.
Chairperson of Highland Council’s Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham Mackenzie, said: “We understand not all children may want to participate, but the more responses we have the more we can listen to what Highland children want to see in their play parks.
“I would encourage parents, carers and guardians to complete a questionnaire and to help their young ones fill in questionnaire too.”
He added: “This project reflects the council’s Our Future Highland programme.
“In particular, Our Highland Today, which addresses the harms created by the Covid pandemic.
“The council’s programme seeks to address short to medium-term priorities to mitigate the impacts of this crisis where it can.”
Highland Council actively supports all children and youths by valuing, protecting, and developing their individual and unique skills as they journey towards learning the skills of adult life.
Each age group has its own age-appropriate questions. Many children have a good idea of their ‘favourite’ things to do at playparks; and equally what they don’t want to see.
The questions have been designed so Early Year Practitioners, teachers, caregivers, and parents can create a relaxed conversation with younger children and then complete the form on the child’s behalf.
For children who are at the beginning stages of reading, adults can support them through the easy colours and photographs. The only ‘required’ answer is the area in which you live. All other questions can be completed as able.
The council appreciates everyone’s support with this exciting opportunity to shape the future of Highland playparks.
Please ensure questionnaires are completed by 5pm Friday October 20, 2023.
The following link will direct everyone to the questionnaire: forms.office.com/e/p88FebR0Ky