WHEREAS   play is essential for children’s development, for their physical, mental, and social health. [Canadian Pediatric Society, July 2024], and

WHEREAS   the right to play is recognized in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child to be as fundamental as the rights to be cared for and protected from violence. [Canadian Pediatric Society, July 2024], and

WHEREAS   the Government of Prince Edward Island states that

“It is steadfast in its efforts to improve child well-being across the province; every child deserves the opportunity to grow, thrive, and feel supported in every aspect of their life. In Prince Edward Island, we are committed to creating a brighter future for our youngest residents by addressing the key dimensions of their well-being. From nurturing emotional resilience and physical health to ensuring economic stability, safety, and a sense of belonging, our province is taking meaningful steps to support children and families at every stage of their journey. [Initiatives for Young Children in Prince Edward Island, 2019-2025, Government of Prince Edward Island, February 2025]’, and

WHEREAS   parent committees struggle to fundraise enough money to purchase CSA-certified playground equipment. Due to the high cost of living, the level of charitable giving in Canada is falling. “From 2013 to 2023, almost every province recorded a drop in the share of aggregate income donated to charity, with the largest being the 24.7 percent decline seen in PEI.” Fraser Institute, National Newswatch, Dec. 15, 2025, and

WHEREAS   parent committees are volunteers and may not have the legal expertise currently
required to purchase playground equipment for schools. “PEI Parents Group Upset After New Playground Equipment Didn’t Meet Standards,” CBC News, Dec. 17, 2025, and

WHEREAS   the Government of Prince Edward Island currently offers a Playground Equipment Fund contributing up to 50% (max $25,000) for equipment at CSLF or PSB schools.  A single CSA certified playground structure can currently cost up to $150,000.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the PEI Home and School Federation urges the Department of Education and Early Years and the Public Schools Branch to establish playground equipment and accessible outdoor play spaces and learning environment infrastructure as standard components within the provincial capital budget and annual operating budgets for new school builds, expansions, and major renovations;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this capital funding commitment cover not only installation, but also the timely replacement of expired or unsafe equipment according to best practices and CSA standards;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that consultation with parent advocates, accessibility organizations, and school communities be included in the planning process to ensure equity and inclusion.

BACKGROUND:
1. Position Statement of Canadian Pediatric Society, “Healthy childhood development through outdoor risky play: Navigating the balance with injury prevention” Paediatrics & Child Health, Volume 29, Issue 4, July 2024, Pages 255-261