One of the most important investments any community can make is in the well-being and all-round development of the children. Schools, parks, churches, day cares and city and town authorities can contribute to this by building well-designed playgrounds. Play and physical activity are necessary not only for the health but also emotional and intellectual well-being and development of all children. Playground equipment like horse spring riders and playground climbing walls are both fun and challenging, and will encourage children to be adventurous and creative while giving them the exercise they need.
The importance of play
Kids love to run around and play. It comes naturally to them, and it actually serves many developmental purposes. Children need at least 60 minutes of playtime, with moderate exercise, to maintain good health and a healthy weight. They can get this exercise at a playground. Play also helps children to develop physically, emotionally and mentally.
They learn motor coordination skills as well as social skills like sharing, cooperation and team work. Play encourages shy children to come out of their shell, and join in the fun. Games help to awaken a spirit of adventure and curiosity, which will help children find their way through life. Play also helps in mental development, leading to the development of over 400 genes in the cerebral cortex.
Why playgrounds are necessary
With all the advantages of play, it’s not always easy for parents to find playgrounds nearby where their kids can play safely. Opportunities to play can be limited, and as a result, less than 43% of children between 6 and 11 years of age get to play for the 60 minutes they need each day to stay healthy. Communities and institutions like schools, churches, parks and daycares can all help to improve the health and well-being of children by building playgrounds in different neighborhoods.
Accessibility and safety are the most important considerations when building playgrounds, and creative and fun design are also close to the top of the list. Themed playgrounds, or custom playgrounds with equipment like playground climbing walls and horse spring rides can provide hours of fun for children.
Some fun ideas for playgrounds
Play by definition has to be fun which means that new and creative ideas, or new twists to old favorites are always welcome. One idea that is quickly becoming popular is playground climbing walls. Kids love to climb, and with playground climbing walls, they can do so in an environment that is both safe and challenging. Climbing is fun and helps to develop self-confidence and problem solving skills.
Climbing walls can have areas for different levels of skill and different age groups. Even old playground favorites like slides and seesaws can get a makeover just by adding some familiar characters from cartoons, films or storybooks. In fact, rebuilding a playground is a good way to generate interest. Studies have shown that children’s play time increases by two-thirds in playgrounds that have been rebuilt.
Playgrounds are one of the best investments that a community can make in its children, which is to say that they are one of the best investments in the future. They promote good health and also an adventurous spirit, self-confidence and social and problem-solving skills. Innovative ideas like playground climbing walls can make sure that the fun never ends.
