Natural Playgrounds Encourage Active Imaginations
Natural playgrounds, which feature elements like trees and flowers, may motivate children to be more active and use their creative imaginations.
The Changing Face of Playgrounds
When you envision a playground, does a scene filled with bright metal or plastic equipment devoid of nature come to mind? If so, you may not be aware of the evolving trend in children’s playground design known as the “natural playground” or “natural playscape.”
These innovative spaces blend natural features such as trees, flowers, logs, tree stumps, hills, boulders, and even streams. The popularity of these playgrounds is on the rise for numerous reasons. The Government of Alberta notes that in natural play environments, children have the freedom to play at will while also engaging in structured activities led by teachers, parents, or community members. The diverse offerings in a natural play area captivate children and foster a wide range of play experiences.
Research Findings on Natural Playgrounds
A recent, yet-to-be-published study from the University of Tennessee suggests that this modern approach to playground design could be significantly better at engaging kids compared to traditional, non-natural playgrounds.
The researchers analyzed how children interacted with a playground before and after it was transformed from a standard playground into a natural one. The findings indicated that, when compared to the traditional setup, the natural playground encouraged children to:
- Be more active (doubling the amount of time spent playing)
- Tap into their imaginations
- Engage in more aerobic and activities that strengthen bones and muscles
- Use their motor skills
- Spend less time in sedentary areas (like the porch)
These findings highlight how playground design greatly impacts children’s interactions with their surroundings and their levels of activity versus inactivity.
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