This note on pandemic playground guidance goes out to Anthony from Vivo, who once asked, “but how do I clean this tub full of pool noodle chunks?” He asked it worried, laughing, earnest. It felt like a quintessential playworker question – knowing the value of what looks like trash and needing to offer it responsibly during uncertain times.
Back in 2020, COVID-19 created a new reality for everyone. Those changes reached deeply into the world of playwork. Around the world, people began asking what play would look like during and after the pandemic and how we could adapt our practices while keeping play accessible, joyful and safe.
Our approach to pandemic playground guidance
In response to the challenges, we gathered insights from trusted experts and applied them to our work with the pop-up adventure playground model. The goal was to offer useful pandemic playground guidance while maintaining play opportunities for children in a time when they needed it most.
We recognised that families, educators and playworkers were under enormous stress, processing overwhelming information, constantly shifting rules and limited resources. Our guidance aimed to support safe and joyful play while respecting local guidelines.
Tips for adapting playwork during the pandemic
We created a detailed guide with tips and reflections for pandemic play settings. These included:
- How to clean and store loose parts responsibly
- Suggestions for low-contact activities
- Advice on communicating with families and volunteers
- Balancing risk with children’s need to play
While the height of the pandemic may be behind us, many of the lessons remain valuable. For example, being intentional about materials and space continues to support safer, more creative play environments. You can learn more about our general approach on our page for playwork resources and best practices.
Start small, start now, keep going
We encouraged everyone to adapt thoughtfully and continue reflecting on their playwork practices. Our motto remains relevant for all challenges, not just pandemics. Whether you’re setting up a pop-up playground in your neighbourhood or working in a formal setting, pandemic-era creativity can still inform your work today.
We invite you to share your own insights, and check back with us as we continue to update resources. For broader strategies on delivering pop-up play sessions, explore our archive and guides available throughout the site.
By Morgan
