We recognize that the social skills that children develop on the playground often become lifelong skill sets that are carried forward into their adulthood. Research concludes that playgrounds are among the most important environments for children outside the home. Most forms of play are essential for healthy development, but free, spontaneous play—the kind that occurs on playgrounds, is the most beneficial type of play.
Exciting, engaging and challenging playground equipment is important to keep children happy while developing their agility, coordination and learning abilities. These should be developed in order to suit different groups of children at different stages of learning, such as providing specialized playground equipment for nursery & pre-school children teaching them basic numeracy & vocabulary, to building a child's creativity and imagination with role play panels or puzzles. Research suggests that the health benefits of physical activity in children are predominantly evident in the prevention of risk factors for disease, avoidance of unhealthy weight gain, acquisition of peak bone mass and mental well-being. Studies suggest that children who participate in physical activity improve their self-esteem. It has been found that exercise programmes have a significant positive effects on children's self-worth. It can be said that playgrounds provide an ideal opportunity for children to master physical skills, such as learning to swing, balancing and climbing. Personal development may be gained through the enhancement of skills, such as playing, communicating and cooperating with other children and adults in the playground. |
IODE Ontario
45 Frid Street, Suite 9 Hamilton, ON L8P 4M3 iodeontario@gmail.com
905-522-9537 905-522-3637 fax |
IODE is a registered Canadian charity and we welcome donations in any amount to support the good work of our organization. |