Natural school playgrounds are great! They provide a much more wholesome environment for children to grow and learn. Natural school environments have been shown to have many benefits for the students of a school. Find out in this blog post what these benefits are!
The benefits of natural school playgrounds to children
Natural playgrounds provide a host of benefits to children. They offer opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and cognitive development. Natural playgrounds also promote a sense of stewardship and responsibility for the environment.
Physical activity is an essential part of a child’s development. Natural playgrounds provide opportunities for children to explore, climb, run, and play. This physical activity helps to develop gross motor skills and coordination. It also helps to improve fitness levels and reduce obesity rates.
Social interaction is another important aspect of child development. Natural playgrounds provide opportunities for children to interact with their peers in an outdoor setting. This social interaction helps to develop communication skills and teamwork. It also fosters cooperation and conflict-resolution skills.
Cognitive development is enhanced by natural playgrounds as well. Children have the opportunity to learn about their surroundings through exploration and play. They can learn about plants, animals, and the changing seasons. This type of learning helps to develop critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities.
Natural playgrounds also promote a sense of stewardship and responsibility for the environment. Children who play in natural playgrounds learn to appreciate nature and the importance of protecting our planet.
The benefits that natural school playgrounds have on the environment and on the community:
1. Natural school playgrounds have numerous benefits for the environment and the community.
2. They help to promote sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials and planting native vegetation.
3. Natural playgrounds also provide important habitats for local wildlife.
4. In addition, they can help to connect children with nature, fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
5. Finally, natural playgrounds can serve as community gathering places, providing valuable green space in urban areas.
The different types of natural school playgrounds
When it comes to natural school playgrounds, there are many different types of playgrounds that are considered “natural.” Natural playgrounds can be found in schools, parks, childcare facilities, and even some homes. They are designed to provide opportunities for children to explore, play, and learn in a natural environment.
Some of the most common types of natural playgrounds include:
1. Nature-based playgrounds: These playgrounds feature elements that are found in nature, such as trees, rocks, sand, and water. They often have fewer man-made structures and more open space for children to explore.
2. Adventure playgrounds: Adventure playgrounds are designed to promote risk-taking and physical activity. They often have more challenging features than other types of playgrounds, such as taller slides and monkey bars.
3. Sensory gardens: Sensory gardens are designed to stimulate the senses with plantings that have different textures, smells, and colors. They may also include features such as water fountains or bird feeders.
4. Green roofs: Green roofs are covered with vegetation and can be used as an extension of the school grounds or as a standalone play area. They provide a cool place to play in hot weather and can also help reduce stormwater runoff.
Tips for parents/teachers when trying to pick out a natural school playground
As the old saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. When it comes to choosing a natural playground for your school, there are many factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you choose the best possible playground for your students:
1. Consider the location of the playground. Is it easily accessible for all students? Is it close to the school so that supervision is easy?
2. Make sure that the playground is age-appropriate. There should be different areas for different age groups so that all students can enjoy the space safely.
3. Consider the type of play equipment that is available. Is there a variety of equipment so that students can explore different types of play?
4. Make sure that the playground is safe. There should be no sharp edges or hazards that could injure students.
5. Make sure that the playground is clean and well-maintained. The last thing you want is for students to get sick from playing on dirty or broken equipment.
By following these tips, you can be sure to choose a natural playground that will be enjoyed by all of your students!
The steps it takes to make and install a natural play area
Constructing a natural playground requires careful planning and execution. The first step is to choose a suitable location. It is important to consider the size of the area, the type of terrain, and the climate. Once a location has been selected, the next step is to design the playground. This includes choosing the right type of equipment and materials. The third step is to install the playground. This involves assembling the equipment and preparing the site. Finally, the fourth step is to maintain the playground. This includes regular cleaning and inspections.
Conclusion
There are many benefits of natural playgrounds in schools, including providing opportunities for active play, encouraging social interaction, and promoting creativity. Natural playgrounds also offer a variety of sensory experiences and can help reduce stress levels. If you are considering installing a natural playground in your school, be sure to check out our selection of the top 10 benefits.
