Why Play Matters: Creating Joyful, Safe Spaces for Children in Tower Hamlets

At Toynbee Hall, we believe every child deserves a chance to play, explore, and grow but in Tower Hamlets, nearly half (48%) of children are growing up in poverty. For many families, both time and money are in short supply. That means fewer opportunities for extra-curricular activities, and limited access to safe, outdoor spaces for children to play freely.

We know that play isn’t just a way to pass the time, it’s vital for a child’s healthy development. Through play, children build confidence, resilience, and independence. They learn how to communicate, move, create and imagine. Most importantly, they have fun, which in itself is essential to wellbeing.

Listening to Families, Building Together

When we spoke to local families, a common theme emerged: a real desire for play spaces and activities that children and parents could enjoy together. In response, we developed three unique programmes that invite families to connect, create and enjoy the simple joy of playing, safely and freely.

Art Club at Toynbee Hall

Every week, we welcome children aged 2–11 to our Art Club, many of whom come from families who volunteer at or access a nearby food bank. These creative sessions include painting, drawing, clay work and sculpture. With a playful, hands-on approach, children are free to explore different art forms and find new ways to express themselves. The sessions are filled with colour, laughter, and curiosity. A space where imagination leads the way.

Nature-Based Play in Christ Church Gardens, Spitalfields

Outdoors, come rain or shine, children gather with their parents and carers in Christ Church Gardens for nature-inspired play. From den-building and kite-making to woodwork and imaginative games, these sessions provide vital green space for children to let loose.

One parent shared:

“This is so good for their stress busting. The problem with living in a flat and school is there is very little space for my boys to express themselves freely. These sessions give them a chance to play wild for a bit. They go home tired and happy.”

We now welcome around 25 children to these weekly sessions, where friendships and a strong sense of community are growing alongside the fun.

Horticulture at Canon Barnett Primary School

At Canon Barnett, children have taken part in a project that combines play with learning about the natural world. Together, we’ve planted 300 bulbs around the school, a hands-on activity that’s brought beauty and biodiversity to an urban setting. Watching bees enjoy the flowers the children helped plant is a reminder of the lasting impact their work can have.

A Safe Space to Grow

Each week, nearly a hundred children now access child-led play sessions through our programmes. These spaces allow children and adults to learn, relax, and connect with one another in ways that are often missing from daily life. At Toynbee Hall, we’re committed to creating more opportunities for children to be themselves  to run, paint, plant, imagine and play. Because when children are given the space to play, they thrive.