We all know that laughter makes you feel good, but our approach also reflects powerful current evidence from social science, neuroscience and biochemistry.
Laughter, collective physical play and trusting relationships are essential for building social bonds, resolving conflict, creating cohesive communities, developing resilience, and securing personal and social wellbeing.
The freely chosen, collective, physical play that is at the heart of our activities makes a significant contribution to health.
We develop relationships of trust and reciprocity which facilitate learning.
Our principles and practices of inclusion ensure that participation cuts across ages, capacities and backgrounds.
Our participatory and inclusive approach supports belonging and self-esteem and makes everyone a member of the Flying Seagull Project.
The Flying Seagulls’ work reflects powerful current evidence from social science, neuroscience and biochemistry of the importance of laughter, collective physical play and trusting relationships for building social bonds, resolving conflict, creating cohesive communities, developing resilience and securing personal and social wellbeing.
Professor Deborah Youdell in a 2015 study on the impact of the Flying Seagull Project’s approach for the Public Service Academy at Birmingham University
Physical healthDevelops motor skills and improves fitness (Lindon 2007), improves function of blood vessels (Science Daily, 2011), increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the effectiveness of T cells for a stronger immune system (Scott, 2011).
Cognitive developmentImproves IQ (Elkind 2007), develops vocabulary, ability to solve problems, self-confidence and motivation, and an awareness of the needs of others (Zigler 2009). Lack of play in childhood linked to reduced brain size and activity (Tobin 1997).
Emotional resilienceReduces stress, increases levels of endorphins (Scott, 2011), improves ability to cope with and recover from trauma (Lester and Russell 2008), reduces aggressive behaviour (Bird 2007).
Social harmonyHelps children relate to each other and feel part of their community (Casey 2010). Develops empathetic skills and cooperating, helping, sharing, and solving problems (Open University 2011). Helps overcome cultural differences and break down social isolation for disabled or disadvantaged children (Dunn et al. 2004).
Community tiesImproves children’s ability to develop strong, trusting relationships with other children and adults, strengthens general community ties (Worpole and Knox 2007), and improves adult perception of community strength and safety (Prezza and Pacilli 2007).
Positive social outcomesReduces likelihood of developing violent or anti-social behaviours, reduces aggression and emotional repression (Edwards and Bromfield 2009). Reduces aggressive behaviour (Bird 2007).
