Nursery World - In the open

City parks have again become fun places, and safe ones, thanks to a team of rangers. Judith Napier reports There are lots of green, open spaces around Bath and north-east Somerset - but until recently many children simply weren't using them.

There are lots of green, open spaces around Bath and north-east Somerset - but until recently many children simply weren't using them.

They were scared of bullying and intimidation, or simply felt uncertain in an outdoors environment. Through consultation over a play review, the early years childcare and play team with Bath and North East Somerset education service concluded that children chose to avoid the parks. Well-intentioned parents added to the problem by keeping children at home, fearing for their safety. It was a vicious circle.

But an innovative scheme that put purple-sweatshirted play rangers into parks in all weathers has led to dozens of children of all ages being able to play socially, learn to deal with conflict, and have fun in the fresh air.

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