5 simple play-based actions to try as way to unlock possibilities for community engagement and ACTionism

What if the key to transforming our communities was as simple as blowing bubbles or taking chalk for a walk?

Emma from Playful Anywhere calls play a 'Trojan horse' - it slips past our adult defences and opens up conversations we might otherwise avoid.

When we play in our places, we see them differently, connect with others naturally, and suddenly those tricky conversations about what our communities need become... well, playful.

Here's why imagination and play aren't just for kids - they're essential tools for anyone wanting to connect more deeply with where they live and work.

Ready to ACT: 5 Simple Play-Based Actions to Get Started:

1. Blow bubbles in unexpected places - parks, high streets, outside your office. Watch how people's faces change and conversations begin. Nobody can resit giant bubbles!
2. Take the chalk for a walk - draw hopscotch squares, positive messages, or simple arrows leading to something beautiful in your place or space - people will start to talk and maybe even join in.
3. Carry a big gnarled stick - it gives you the chance to adopt a character, makes you approachable, and turns any walk into an adventure that others want to join.
4. Start a paper aeroplane contest - fold planes from recycled paper and see whose flies furthest in your local park or courtyard. You could even have a stack of paper to hand for others to join in
5. Create a 'curiosity trail' - leave small, intriguing objects (painted stones, origami, tiny toys) for others to discover and hopefully continue the chain.

Remember: you're not being silly, you're being strategic. Play is one of the fastest way to turn strangers into collaborators.