Monkey-do is a Community Interest Organisation with over 20 years of expertise commissioning adventure play activities.

We regularly set up temporary play features, such as our much loved monkey nets, for events and at festivals.

We also plan and build permanent structures, provide guidance on the protection of trees, and offer training to others working with children.

With the increasing ascendance of screen culture and solo video game play, risky play has never been so vital and relevant.

Coupled with a shift towards risk-averse attitudes for children, young people are becoming increasingly disconnected from the natural world. 

This is problematic for the wellbeing of individuals growing up in society today, and for the world itself; since minimal contact with nature may lessen the regard for its wonders and value.

Close, positive encounters with trees and woodlands help to engender greater understanding, enthusiasm and respect for the natural environment in the young people who play with Monkey-Do, whilst the climbing experience instils confidence, independence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. 

Monkey-Do takes a balanced approach to play safety as advocated by Play England and others. This approach weighs risks against benefits and ensures that facilitating children to learn by managing small, calculated risks for themselves is not compromised by excessive risk-aversion.

Most of the risks and hazards associated with climbing in nets (i.e. falling) are clearly apparent and can be managed effectively and autonomously by children without adult interference. 

Meanwhile, Monkey-Do supervises play at all times and acts to mitigate any risks that could be ancillary, such as equipment failure, or dead branches becoming dislodged from above.

Minor injuries such as bumps and grazes are an integral part of learning through wild play, while the risk of more serious harm is tightly controlled.