Create your own PlayWorld

We’ve developed a range of resources for parents, carers and playgroups. You can either use ours – we’ve designed them as step-by-step guides –  or create your own using a favourite story or book.

Our five key steps are all based on research. You’ll be amazed at how they work.

Conceptual PlayWorld blank template (DOCX, 0.1 MB)

  • Step 1: Read your book

    As you read, notice how the characters might be feeling, or notice specific parts of the story that will later form a part of your PlayWorld.

  • Step 2: Prepare for your play

    Get all your ingredients together. As a parent or carer, it’s likely you’ll need to make a recording or writer a letter to introduce a problem in the play that children will solve.

  • Step 3: Go on your adventure

    An important part of the PlayWorld is the entry and exit. We always suggest an imaginary device to signify you’ve entered the play. It can be as simple a sign, putting on a hat or even jumping on a magic broom. Both the adults and children take on a role.

  • Step 4: Encounter a problem

    This is where the drama really gets ramped up, creating a sense of urgency to find solutions. This are what our research calls ‘motivating conditions’, and amp up the learning potential of a PlayWorld.

  • Step 5: Learn through play

    Investigating solutions to the problem – and then implementing them through play – is where the magic happens. You expand vocabulary, enhance empathy, support literacy and most of all, have fun.

PlayWorld starters

Are you ready to give it a go? Why not try one of our pop-up Conceptual PlayWorld starters designed specifically for families and playgroups. You can also explore our range of resources developed as part of our partnership with ABC Education.

See all PlayWorld starters

Partnership

Play School Story Time

We are working in partnership with ABC Kids Early Education to introduce PlayWorlds to thousands of Australian educators and families through Play School Story Time.

Find out more