Children's Play Centre

One of the newer ideas in care of children of pre-school age is the nursery play centre as opposed to kindergarten. Here, within reasonable bounds, the child is allowed absolute freedom of expression.

One would expect in such a lax atmosphere for the average child to go berserk. But such is far from the case. When Photo News visited the newly formed Elgin Nursery Play Centre at the Te Hapara church house, the children were playing in perfect harmony with one another and, while they were left alone, all went smoothly.

This simple ramp provided endless amusement - as a roadway for the truck driver - as an ideal slope for the tyre-rollers.

Davy Crockett all but "got" the cameraman from his "rubber roundhouse".

Water has an endless fascination.

While some children joined in games with other friends, most preferred to provide their own amusement, as pictured here.

This young lady entertained herself for nigh on an hour dabbling around in saucers of finger paint.

Who says a basin of water is useless? It kept this cute blonde occupied. Maybe she did end up rather wet, but she'd had loads of fun.

What could be simpler? A smooth board leaning against a box. This girl and her young male companion found it every bit as good as any fully fashioned slide.

The grounds around the Te Hapara church house provide ample space for the children at the play centre to enjoy themselves.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 51 : September 18, 1958

Children's Play Centre