Close your eyes for a second and picture it: a play space filled with rope swings, dens, community, creativity and the belief that every child deserves a space where they can belong. That’s how Amber grew up, with a father who managed an adventure playground: a radical, joyful world of play that shaped her childhood and ignited her future passion. As an Inclusive Play Consultant, she now works across education, culture and community to champion play as a driver of equity, wellbeing and transformation. But first thing’s first: what is an Inclusive Play Consultant?



The language of childhood

“I work with families, educators, nurseries, schools and cultural organisations to create spaces where every child feels seen, valued and able to thrive through play,” explains Amber. Sounds amazing so far, doesn’t it? “My work blends child development, creativity, social justice and joy. I help adults understand how to design play environments that are flexible, responsive and truly inclusive so that no child is left on the sidelines.”

Amber, who has collaborated with leading organisations including the London Business School and the Royal Opera House, holds a deep belief that play is not an add-on, but a vital pathway to resilience, joy and lifelong learning. “Play is not a luxury,” she shares. “It is not something children earn after learning. Play is the language of childhood, the way children make sense of the world, test ideas, process emotions, build relationships and discover who they are.”

Protecting play

We weren’t kidding when we said child’s play is actually a serious topic - one that needs protecting. According to Amber, “When we protect play, we protect childhood itself. And when adults join children in play, even for a moment, something magical happens. Connection deepens. Stress softens. Understanding grows. Play becomes a bridge between worlds, allowing us to meet children exactly where they are.”

The first classroom

We love the idea of building bridges, right? Amber explains how growing up on adventure playgrounds shaped her career path. “That playground was not just a place to play. It was my first classroom, my first community and the foundation of my belief that play is a human right. I saw firsthand how play transforms children’s confidence, friendships, resilience and sense of self”, Amber continues. “It changed my life, and I have spent my career making sure other children have access to that same magic.”

Three everyday play moments

Now that we know just how important play is, how do we incorporate it into our daily lives? Because let’s be honest: we’re exhausted. We crave quality time with our children and yet our schedules are overstuffed. Amber has a great solution. “Parents are carrying so much emotionally, mentally and physically. Play should never feel like another task on the to-do list. It can be woven into the smallest, most ordinary moments of the day.”

Here are three such moments you can enjoy with your little angel.

We can’t wait to try these! Amber emphasises the simplicity, finishing off by saying, “These micro moments do not require props, planning or perfection. Just presence.”

Understanding your child (and yourself!) through play

“Play is a window into your child’s inner world. When you watch your child play, what they repeat, what they avoid, what they invent, you are witnessing their thoughts, emotions and problem solving strategies in motion,” according to Amber. “Play reveals what they are curious about, what they are processing, what they are proud of, what they are worried about and how they see themselves in the world.”

Can you learn something about yourself through play? Absolutely. Amber elaborates, “Play helps adults understand themselves too. When you join your child in play, you notice your own patterns. Do you rush? Do you try to direct everything? Do you find it hard to switch off? Play invites adults to slow down, breathe and reconnect with their own sense of wonder. It becomes a mirror and a bridge, a way to meet your child and yourself with more compassion.”

How much screen time is okay?

And now for the most pressing question we can think of about the state of children’s play: is technology okay for my child? Amber has some clear advice on this controversial topic.

“Technology is not the enemy,” she states. “It is all about balance, intention and connection. Screens can get in the way of play if they replace human interaction or become the default activity. But they can also enhance play when used thoughtfully.”

Colour us intrigued! What does that look like? “For example, taking photos together and turning them into a story”, offers Amber. “Using a short video as a springboard for imaginative play. Exploring music, movement or drawing apps as creative tools.”

That makes a lot of sense to us. It’s not “go play on the iPad in the other room”, it’s using technology in a mindful way, as inspiration rather than its own solitary activity. Amber summarises, “The key is simple. Technology should be a tool, not a substitute for connection. If screens are used with your child rather than instead of you, they can be part of a healthy, joyful play routine.”

Types of play at certain ages

Phew, what a relief! But we saved the best for last. We asked Amber about the different stages of age-appropriate play, and she provided this warm, parent-friendly guide.

Newborns

Gentle sensory play

Faces, voices, soft singing

High contrast visuals

Skin to skin and slow movement

Babies

Tummy time adventures

Cause and effect toys

Peekaboo and mirror play

Safe household objects

Preschoolers

Role play and storytelling

Construction and small world play

Early mark making and creative arts

Cooperative games

Toddles

Messy play with water, sand or dough

Simple pretend play

Stacking, posting, filling and emptying

Movement play like climbing, rolling or dancing.

Five and up

More complex imaginative play

Board games and problem solving

Creative projects

Outdoor adventures and physical play

Fabulous! We don’t know about you, but we’re ready for playtime. But before we go, Amber has one last piece of advice. “Follow the child,” she says. “Their curiosity will always show you what they are ready for!”