2.4.2 Leisure and Recreation

REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS

Regulation 18 - Education, employment and leisure activity

The following are general principles which apply to leisure, recreation, exercise and rest for all Children.

All children must be encouraged to participate in exercise, recreational, social and leisure activities on a group and individual basis within and outside the home.
Children should have occasional opportunities to participate in special trips, outings and have at least one holiday per year.
That Birthdays, name days, cultural and religious festivals must be celebrated.
Children must be encouraged to pursue hobbies, recreational interests and sports, and their daily routine should include opportunities for rest and relaxation.
There should be a proper balance between free and controlled time in the daily routine.
Where it is necessary, Risk Assessments must be completed before activities are undertaken.
Where required, qualified or certified staff/instructors must be engaged/employed.
Children should have access to, and a choice in the selection of, newspapers, books and magazines suitable to their age and level of understanding
Children should have access to, preferably ownership of, suitable toys, music, books and games.
Transport used by the home should not be marked in such a way as to distinguish it from an ordinary family vehicle, unless it has been received by the home as a charitable donation in which case it may carry the name of the donating charity.
Children should be encouraged and enabled to make and sustain friendships with children of their own age outside the home. This may involve friends visiting the home, and reciprocal arrangements to visit friends' homes.

Children should be encouraged and supported to use computer technology, including the Internet, and electronic games which are suitable to their age and level of understanding.
Children may only watch videos, television programmes or films designated for their age.

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