ST THOMAS, Jamaica- Several studies have emphasised that play is an essential part of a child’s cognitive, social, and physical development.

In recognition of this important aspect of childhood development and its commitment to early childhood education, the JN Foundation, through the JN Circle Morant Bay chapter, recently established the first-ever playground at Chapel Hill Basic School in its 60 years of existence.

The school has nurtured some prominent Jamaicans over its 60-year history, including 2020 Olympic Gold medallist over the 110-metre hurdles, Hansle Parchment.

Principal, Nadine Richards-Gowie, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting the impact on students’ learning experiences.

“The children now have a secure area to play and [the] play equipment will enhance coordination and the development of muscles,” she noted. The school currently accommodates 42 students and is staffed by three teachers.

Norman Hinds, president of the JN Circle Morant Bay chapter, underscored the necessity of the initiative.

“We selected this project because we saw the need for the children to have a play area to engage in more activities that contribute to their development,” he said.

The playground features a variety of equipment, including swings, a slide, and monkey bars, all designed to support the physical and cognitive growth of the students. Hinds noted that the project has been met with enthusiasm from both the school and the community.

“My members are elated and happy to have [undertaken] the project for this school. Now that it has become a reality, we are feeling joyful, happy, and glad,” he added.

Hinds also highlighted the school’s importance to the local community and reiterated the value of the initiative.

“We are proud to contribute to the children’s growth and development, ensuring they have access to facilities that enrich their learning experience,” he stated.

General Manager of the JN Foundation, Claudine Allen, also welcomed the opportunity to enrich the lives of the children.
“It is indeed a pleasure to share in an important part of the experience of every child who learns at Chapel Hill Basic School,” she remarked.

“Play is an essential part of children’s growth, aiding in the development of motor skills, cooperation, and cognitive abilities. Having safe facilities for children to play in is critical in every early childhood education institution.”
Allen also acknowledged the role of the church in supporting education in Jamaica, commending its longstanding commitment to nurturing young minds.

She also expressed hope that as the government continues to implement standards for safe play areas, more schools will benefit from similar facilities.

“Chapel Hill Basic School is now ahead of many other institutions, and we dream with you that one day, what you have will become the standard nationwide,” Allen said.

She noted that Global Schools Play Day is recognised annually in February, with February the 5th celebrated by UNICEF and Ministry of Education, Youth, and Information as Play Day JA.
Richards-Gowie is confident that the new play area will positively impact the school by attracting more interest from parents and ensuring students develop essential motor skills and socialisation skills.

“Playing is an important part of children’s lives, and with this development, parents can be assured that their children are receiving holistic growth,” she said.