Schools that prioritize investing in quality playgrounds reap benefits that extend beyond recess, fostering growth in physical, cognitive, and social skills while strengthening ties within the community.
“While we all know that playgrounds can be loads of fun, the therapeutic benefit children can gain from these unique environments is often overlooked,” writes occupational therapist Madelyn Girardi for Neuropsychology & Education Services for Children & Adolescents. “Playgrounds allow children to explore the environment around them, develop important social/emotional skills, and build the necessary motor abilities to be successful in life.”
Indeed, at Churchich Recreation we understand that playgrounds are more than just spaces for children to play; they are vital tools for education, child development, and community engagement.
Miracle Recreation agrees: “One of the most important but often overlooked learning spaces at any school is its playground. A school’s play area is more than just a place to unwind or blow off steam in between math, reading and history. School playgrounds are actually a vital part of students’ development.”
Below, we dive deeper into the reasons why every school should invest in a quality playground and what distinguishes high-quality playgrounds from substandard ones.
The Educational Benefits of Playgrounds
Schools investing in quality playgrounds can pay off with improved academic performance as well as enhanced focus and mental health of students.
“Play is not frivolous: it enhances brain structure and function and promotes executive function (ie, the process of learning, rather than the content), which allows us to pursue goals and ignore distractions,” says the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Play is fundamentally important for learning 21st century skills, such as problem solving, collaboration, and creativity, which require the executive functioning skills that are critical for adult success.”
The education benefits of playgrounds include:
- Improved Academic Performance: Physical activity on playgrounds has been shown to enhance brain function, leading to better academic outcomes. Studies indicate that active children are 20 percent more likely to excel in subjects like math and English. Playgrounds also provide opportunities for experiential learning, where children can apply classroom concepts in real-world scenarios, such as observing nature or practicing problem-solving skills during play.
- Enhanced Focus and Mental Health: Recess breaks allow students to refresh their minds, improving focus and reducing stress when they return to class. For children with ADHD or anxiety, outdoor play provides a constructive outlet for energy and emotions, enabling them to better manage their challenges.
Child Development Through Play
Access to a quality playground not only benefits children in learning settings but helps with their overall child development in several wells:
- Physical Growth and Motor Skills: Quality playgrounds encourage physical activity that builds strength, coordination, and balance. Activities like climbing structures and monkey bars develop gross motor skills while engaging in different muscle groups. These physical benefits contribute to overall health and reduce sedentary behaviors.
- Cognitive and Creative Development: Playgrounds stimulate creativity and imagination through themed or abstract equipment that allows children to invent games and stories. Cognitive skills like problem-solving and persistence are also nurtured when children tackle challenges such as climbing walls or balancing beams.
- Social Skills and Emotional Growth: Playgrounds are social hubs where children learn cooperation, turn-taking, conflict resolution, and teamwork. Group activities on equipment like see-saws or multi-user swings foster collaboration among peers while teaching valuable interpersonal skills.
A study by the University of Missouri-Kansas City (The Importance of Outdoor Play and Its Impact on Brain Development in Children) found the benefits for school-age children five-fold:
- Children are less fidgety and more on-task when they have recess, with children with ADHD benefiting the most.
- Research on memory and attention shows that recall is improved when learning is spaced out rather than concentrated.
- Brain research shows a relationship between physical activity and development of brain connections.
- On the playground, children exercise leadership, teach games to one another, take turns and learn to resolve conflicts.
- In a free choice situation, children learn negotiation and conflict resolution skills in order to keep the play going.
Community Engagement
Investing in a playground transforms schools into community centers where families gather, fostering connections among parents, teachers, and students.
A well-designed playground can become a source of pride for the neighborhood, encouraging local involvement in school activities.
Community members often contribute through fundraising efforts or volunteer work during installation projects.
What Defines a Quality Playground?
Not all playgrounds are created equal. A quality playground stands out due to its focus on safety, inclusivity, durability, and thoughtful design.
Look for the following:
- Safety Standards: High-quality playgrounds adhere to strict safety guidelines set by organizations like ASTM International or the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
- Inclusive Design: A quality playground accommodates children of all abilities with features like wheelchair-accessible ramps or sensory play equipment.
- Durability and Long-Term Value: Investing in durable materials help reduce maintenance costs over time.
- Enhanced Play Experience: Quality playgrounds offer diverse equipment that caters to various developmental needs—from climbing towers for physical challenges to sandboxes for creative exploration.
Best Practices for Designing and Installing Playgrounds
Designing and installing a school playground is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning to ensure it meets the needs of students, staff, and the broader community.
Below are some essential guidelines to consider when planning your playground project.
- Prioritize Accessibility: Accessibility should be a cornerstone of any playground design. Ensure pathways are wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers, and include features like ramps, transfer stations, and sensory play equipment for children with disabilities.
- Create Distinct Play Areas: A quality playground caters to diverse interests and developmental needs by offering distinct zones for different types of activities:
o Active Play Areas: Include climbing structures, monkey bars, or obstacle courses to encourage physical activity.
o Quiet Zones: Provide spaces like benches or shaded areas where children can relax or engage in solitary play.
o Open Fields: Incorporate open spaces for sports and group games that promote teamwork and physical fitness.
This zoning approach ensures children have options that align with their energy levels and preferences throughout the day.
- Incorporate Safe Risk: It’s important to include elements that challenge children and help them develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Features like balance beams, climbing walls with secure grips, or rope bridges allow kids to test their limits in a controlled environment. These "safe risks" encourage growth while minimizing the likelihood of injury.
- Engage the Community: Involving parents, teachers, students, and local businesses during the design process creates a sense of ownership and pride in the finished playground.
Investing in Quality Playgrounds
A school’s investment in a quality playground is an investment in its students’ futures—enhancing their physical health, academic performance, emotional well-being, and social skills while strengthening community ties.
Churchich Recreation & Design specializes in designing innovative play spaces tailored to schools’ unique needs. By prioritizing safety, inclusivity, and creativity in our designs, we ensure every child has access to meaningful play experiences.
Contact Churchich Recreation & Design today to learn more about how we can help transform your school’s outdoor space into a space for growth and connection