A PLAY centre in Reading is set to offer free entry to help families tackle the winter slump later this month.
Oxygen Activeplay is inviting more than 10,000 people across the country to join in the fun free of charge on Monday, January 20.
The third Monday of January is known as Blue Monday due to the post-Christmas slump, short daylight hours, and colder weather– first coined in 2005.
Oxygen has also shared research led by Helen Dodd, Professor of Child Psychology at the University of Exeter, which shows that adventurous play has positive effects on children’s mental health.
Results showed that prolonged adventurous play can benefit mood and decrease signs of anxiety or depression.
Professor Helen Dodd said “Our research shows that the more time children spend playing adventurously the fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression they have, and the happier they are.
“Our national survey data shows that for both school-aged children and for preschool-aged children, the most adventurous play happens in indoor play centres, such as trampoline and activity parks like Oxygen, as well as in green outdoor spaces.”
She explained: “We also know from our research with parents that the weather affects how much time children get to play adventurously during the winter.
So, at this time of year, indoor play centres that provide opportunities for thrilling, exciting play provide a way for children to access adventurous play without parents worrying about the weather.
“It is brilliant to see that Oxygen centres are offering free sessions, open to all, at a time of year when children and their parents might be feeling low and children might be in need of some adventurous play.”
Oxygen parks are home to trampolines, an interactive sports pitch; parkour bounce zone; a giant airbag; the Gauntlet Run, a mega obstacle course) and a Toddler Zone, which is fitted out with mini trampolines.
To be in with the chance of securing tickets to the free sessions, parents must be signed up to the Oxygen mailing list prior to Sunday 12th January. Exclusive booking links will be sent out on Monday 13th January, with all slots available to book on a first-come, first-served basis.
Natasha Waterfield, Chief Operating Officer of Oxygen Activeplay, said “Giving families up and down the country a space to play and have big-time fun is our mission at Oxygen, so we’re tackling Blue Monday head-on and making it a day where 10,000 people can jump for joy instead.
“We know that studies have proven how beneficial play can be for mental health and staying active with family and friends is one of the best ways to get the endorphins flowing and shake off the January blues.
“So, everyone is invited to leap into happiness at one of our 12 parks–we hope to see you there.”
More information and access to Oxygen’s mailing list are available via: oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/offers/blue-monday
