During our Canadian tour, we received an invitation from Jade, representing a local Chinese immigrant family group in Richmond. Their message confirmed our fourth stop in the Vancouver area. This event would fall between a community gathering in East Vancouver and a screening of The Land and Project Wild Thing.
Arriving at Burkeville Park
When we arrived, we found a pile of loose parts waiting for us with a sign that read: “Pop-Up Adventure Playground – Do not throw away.” As we unpacked, a small group of curious children appeared. “Can we play?” they asked. “Of course,” Suzanna replied, “you can do whatever you like with these materials.” Within moments, they were busy creating their own worlds of play.
Families join the fun
Soon, more families gathered. Some brought boxes, others laid out picnics, while a few parents stood back, unsure of what to do. “You can use the materials however you please,” we explained. One parent looked surprised, then returned to share this new freedom with her child. Slowly, adults and children alike began to explore.
At one point, I began taping together a box. A child asked what I was making. “Maybe a bed,” I answered, climbing in as a joke. Within seconds, the children transformed the box into a lively play space, swarming around it and inventing their own stories. By the end, that simple box became the foundation for a grand fort.
Play without permission
For some families, this was the first time adults had played alongside their children in years. Some children hesitated, repeatedly asking for permission or thanking us after each action. But with time, they grew more confident. We reminded parents: all children know how to play – they simply need opportunities to practice.
The creativity was inspiring. Children built forts of different shapes and sizes, counted acorns into cupcake molds, and made “Under Construction” signs to share between projects. As the day came to a close, many took part in an enthusiastic smashing and clearing session, turning clean-up into another playful activity.
Lasting impact
As families packed up, children asked when the next event would be. Some even carried their creations home, unwilling to leave them behind. It was clear that this first Richmond event was only the beginning of something bigger.
Continue the journey
This Richmond gathering was part of a larger Canadian adventure, filled with workshops, playwork training, and community events. To explore more, visit our Canadian Tour page. For daily updates, follow us on Facebook and X. You can also learn how to bring playwork training to your community.
By Andy
