Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG)’s Big Play Date is back for 2021!
From today (May 29) until the end of June, supporters are invited to have some fun while raising much-needed funds for childhood cancer by holding their very own play dates.
Hosting a COVID-safe play date couldn’t be simpler, all you have to do is:
- Pick a date for your event
- Invite your friends and family to join you either virtually or in a safe area
- Ask for a small entry fee or donation for taking part in activities and games (open a JustGiving page to add donations to, or download one of our forms)
And, if you’re stuck on ideas, there are plenty on the Big Play Date area of the CCLG website, while there are even some free, downloadable activities to help you with your playdate.
Supporters can also boost their fundraising while helping to spread the word of the Big Play Date, by selling CCLG’s special Big Play Date pin badges.
Becky Charlton, CCLG Supporter Relations and Campaigns Executive, said: “After more than a year of restrictions, and particularly for children and families who have had to shield, play and its many benefits is needed this year, more than ever.
“A Big Play Date provides the perfect opportunity to bring some fun and can entail anything you like - the only thing to remember is to be COVID-safe, and ensure you adhere to the National and Local Government guidelines at the time of your event.
“We’re looking forward to seeing our supporters enjoying themselves, after a particularly challenging year for everyone, as well as to taking part in some great activities ourselves.”
While play is a great way to have some fun, it’s also incredibly important to a child’s development and wellbeing, and has a number of social, physical and mental benefits for all children, particularly for those affected by childhood cancer.
CCLG spoke to several play professionals - who perform a vital role in children’s cancer treatment and care – about the power of play and why they’re supporting the Big Play Date.
Penelope Hart-Spencer, Health Play Specialist at The Christie Hospital, said: “Play is something everyone can enjoy and is excellent for our emotional wellbeing.
“Play is a powerful tool for all children as it helps them to develop essential skills, such as social and emotional skills, while also helping them to express themselves and regulate their feelings.
“Play can help children relax and is very helpful in reducing stress and anxiety.
“Play also helps children with cancer to express their thoughts and feelings about their diagnosis and treatments.
“Children don’t always have the language to articulate how they feel, but we’re able to observe so much through their play and can learn how best to support them when we identify difficulties or worries they may have related to their treatments.”
Ryan Gray, Hospital Play Assistant and Trainee Healthcare Play Specialist at Countess of Chester and Glan Clwyd Hospitals, said: “Play helps with the holistic development of children and helps to promote resilience.
“Play allows children to use their imagination and therefore their focus is redirected towards something fun.
“For families of a child going through cancer treatment, play also allows siblings to feel involved, and can take the focus away from the poorly child allowing siblings to be on equal terms.”
If a Big Play Date sounds like a great way to combine fun and fundraising, then request your pack today for more details and ideas.
And don’t forget to show everyone what you’ve been up to - share your pictures by posting your photos on our Facebook page, tweeting us, or tagging us on Instagram @CCLG_UK using the hashtag #BigPlayDate.