Edithvale Family and Children’s Centre

The Edithvale Family and Children’s Centre is a two storey building with outdoor play areas on the ground and first floor. The outdoor play areas provide a range of play opportunities to develop the physical, cognitive and social skills which are part of early childhood development. They provide a series of accessible, flexible spaces that have natural elements included in the design. Loose materials such as sand and digging areas provide malleable materials for creative play, while safe impact surfaces provide opportunities for active play such as running, jumping, and climbing to encourage muscle development. Natural materials such as log pieces and rocks provide opportunities for balance play, and changes in levels further facilitate this. In addition, planting provides different sensory stimulation and loose parts such as flowers, leaves, and branches for play. Further, seasonal changes are made palpable through the use of shade sails and structures, casting different shadows during winter and summer.