Playgrounds are structures that are designed to capture the attention of children and that structure must also have the necessary features to turn attention into activity to support the physical activity known as playground time.
In a story published by Science News about the correlation of design and physical engagement of playgrounds when it comes to children, Science News focused on the curious case of Lake County Intermediate School in Leadville, Colo. Once admittedly a basic playground that consisted of swing sets, rusting climbing equipment, a cracked basketball court and an area for free play in the form of dirt and gravel.
The playground did not offer much basing on the description and the results were telling: children are likely to play and stay. That is at least before the community decided to remodel and upgrade the playground:
- Installation of a spider-net for climbing
- Twisting slides
- Colourful swing sets
- A new and well-kept basketball court
- A grassy play area
- Hula Hoops
- Ball equipments
- Other playground equipment
The result? Children stayed and played longer compared to the time when the playground was kept at a minimal service capacity.
After the upgrade, scientists observed that the playground area attracted more kids, the area had more activity as children went on to play more vigorously – therefore getting the recommended physical activity needed for their holistic development.
Science News shared a chart about their observation about the new and improved playground: how physical activity have tripled since the remodeling and even after a year, the playground area still sports a higher number of physical activity.
From the charts we can derive the following conclusions:
- Physical activity was at a minimal in the playground area prior to its remodelling.
- An increase in moderate and vigorous activity six months after the remodelling.
- An increase in vigorous activity in 12 months after the playground remodelling.
What Does This Mean for Community Playgrounds?
Basing on the mentioned study and data provided, communities must not neglect their playground area and equipment as children are attracted and are proven to engage in play basing on the quality of the playgrounds. This is also an important factor for residential urban areas that sport a playground and this also applies to educational facilities like schools.
For commercial playgrounds, they are contributing to the physical development and fitness of children under their formative years by supplying an area dedicated to play and recreation.
iREC is a world-class commercial playground and fitness manufacturer. We help develop and supply communities, commercial playgrounds and entertainment facilities with quality playground equipment that can be custom made to fit your project requirements when it comes to playground projects. Contact us today: Call us at +63 047 250 2779 / +63 047 251 3139 or email sales@irec.ph to get in touch with our sales team.