Campaign plays a starting role
A CAMPAIGN to promote the benefits of play for children in their early years was launched in Oban and Argyll this month.
Upstart has held a number of events across the area to publicise its wish to see young children spend less time in academic education and the emphasis switched to play.
Elizabeth Henderson, from the campaign, said: ‘Upstart is an alliance of parents, teachers, early-years practitioners, health and social work professionals, grandparents, education students and others who are concerned about the education and wellbeing of Scotland’s next generation.
‘ We believe children under seven benefit from an educational approach that supports their all-round development, such as through play rather than putting an emphasis on early academic achievement. International research bears this out extensively.
‘A kindergarten stage in education gives children more time to develop at their pace with sensitive adult support and this especially helps those children already struggling.’
Upstart had its official launch on Sunday May 15. Across Argyll there were various activities and, in Oban, several supporters were leafleting.
Further information can be found at www.upstart.scot or on Facebook at upstartscotland.