Designed to support and encourage children and their families to get outside and play as restrictions ease in the coming months, the new initiative will see grants, supports and information resources rolled out over the summer months, creating opportunities for children and their families to enjoy a summer of play.

As part of the Summer of Play launch, minister for children, equality, disability, integration and youth, Roderic O’Gorman, announced €6m in funding to support outdoor play. The funding is being rolled out through two grants:

• The Playing Outside Grant for Early Learning and Care and School-Aged Childcare services will provide €5.5m for services to enhance their outdoor spaces.
• €450,000 for the Local Authorities Play and Recreation grant will fund the refurbishment and development of playgrounds and play areas across the country. The projects funded encompass a wide range of initiatives that will deliver diverse benefits to children and young people and have a positive impact on communities. They include projects such as sensory gardens, learn to cycle tracks and natural play trails.

“We all know that play is how children grow, learn and discover. And after a tough year, it will also be how children reconnect with their family, friends and their communities and recover from the impact of the pandemic,” said O’Gorman.

“In response to the very difficult times children have experienced because of the pandemic, we want to help make sure that children get outside, play, and have fun. To that end, I’ll be announcing funding, supports and resources throughout the summer for them to do just that.”