Ms Harrison is one of many professionals who have helped to shape the ongoing development of Play School to reflect new research on childhood learning and education. She thinks Play School’s enduring significance to Australian childhood is ultimately because of this “commitment to the wellbeing of the child as the guiding focus of all that we do”, from the writing of scripts to the designing of props. The show’s advisors advocate for what is best for children, rather than focusing on profitability or selling particular products.
Ms Harrison says even small details, such as the presenter’s direct eye-line to the camera when making comments or asking questions, help connect to viewers to make the show a fun learning experience. “At Play School we see young children as creative, curious and capable players and investigators … as worthy recipients of adult time, presence and community investment and regard,” says Ms Harrison.
One of the most iconic parts of Play School is its theme song, which has now been heard by three generations of Australians. Written by Australian composer Richard Connolly, with lyrics by Rosemary Milne, the song is a clear example of how the show is written with children in mind. It encourages children to sing along, and repetition also aids the development of neural pathways.
Since the beginning, Play School has retained diversity as a core value. Ms Harrison says it is important to critique the idea of childhood as a universal phenomenon and instead acknowledge and respect the different social, cultural and historical factors that shape childhood. “We try to be responsive to the diversity of experiences that young children encounter in Australian communities, recognising that every child deserves to know that his or her family is recognised and valued,” she says.
However, aspects of the show have also changed significantly over the last five decades. In particular the show has shifted away from its origins (it was originally an adaptation of a British show) to be “more reflective of the Australian landscape, language and cultural composition”. A recent example of this is the introduction of an Australian animal into the cast – Joey the kangaroo. Ms Harrison says one of her favourite parts of the show has been the development of Jemima’s character. “I have loved seeing Jemima fearless and free, crossing boundaries and borders and always with quiet determination and an inner grace.”
The passion both the creators and viewers of Play School have for the show will no doubt see the show continue to entertain and educate children well into the future.
