Think that physical activity is just good for the body? Turns out exercise can help youngsters do better in school too

Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2012/01/03/let-the-kids-play-theyll-do-better-in-school/#ixzz1jaIfTYo6

What a wonderful day to hang out in a nice outdoor space. Was at CERES this morning with my little babe and was reminded how beautiful serene this place is including the birds, the chucks and the kids. I love the playspace and can't wait for my little man to roll down that hill.

LIKE many parents, I have been wondering where the space rockets went. In the past decade, space rockets, merry-go-rounds and monkey bars have been quietly disappearing from our playgrounds. Australian Playground Safety Standards have been changing the design of children's play spaces to remove danger, risk and quite a bit of fun.

While the Australian standard for playground equipment is not mandatory, it has become de facto compulsory because compliance can be referred to in court action against childcare centres, schools, restaurants and local councils.

Keith Heffernan, a risk advisor in Queensland submits the following advice. See attached.

Play Ausrtralia recommends that any item of play equipment being considered for purchase on line should conform with relevant Australian Standards for Play Equipment.

Play and Folkloreissue 56 is now online and can be viewed at http://museumvictoria.com.au/pages/30228/play-and-folklore-56-october-2011.pdf.

Check out the new Online Shade Resource developed by SunSmart and available on their website now....

Melbourne's Age this morning advises that all OSCH services in Australia (as of January 1, 2012) will be required to operate in accord with the new Australian Framework for Out of School Hours Care Services.

Why do we feel so good when we lie down in the grass on a spring day? Why are doctors now handing out 'green prescriptions'? How do green spaces help in the healing process? And what has this got to do with learning?

After the outstanding success of our last seminar "Inspiring Nature Play" on 3 June, the Victorian Child and Nature Connection is excited to announce our second mini-seminar … See attached

Connecting with Nature - the Health Benefits

When: Friday 28th October 2011, 9.15-12.30 pm

Where: Mueller Hall (enter via Gate F)