Children spend most of their time playing with toys and their peers. Play can affect the development of a child that is beneficial for their physical, mental, and emotional growth. There are different outlets for playing, and playgrounds are one of the most popular.
How playgrounds came to be
Playgrounds are designed for active physical activity involving children and sometimes, with their peers. Playgrounds come in different designs and themes that can be attractive and visually stimulating for children. They can be as standard as the regular slides, seesaw, and monkey bars. They can also be as whimsical as castles complete with crenellations and arched windows. The designs can vary depending on the activities that are needed by the children.
Modern playground design of today is made to help the children to develop their physical coordination, strength, and flexibility while enjoying. Playing can also help support a child’s social and emotional development. Playgrounds were first thought of as a developmental aid for children, and for them to grasp the idea of fair play and good manners. The playground concept was first thought of by the developmental psychologist Friedrich Frobel during the 19th century. Playgrounds were often linked or built near schools for it to be accessible to children.
Importance of playgrounds
Playgrounds are made based on careful research and studies made by child psychologists. Suppliers take much into consideration the importance of the structures they install for a child. In Australia, some playground suppliers specifically cater to a park or school’s needs for a fun yet safe place to play.
In today’s world, most people have been reliant on technology, such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets. Children’s exposure to these devices can make them dependent on a device as a source of entertainment, which can have effects on their cognitive and physical development. Screen times should be limited, and they should be encouraged to play more. It is advised that children should have at least an hour of play outdoors or at a playground every day.
A play structure such as playgrounds can help kids to be healthier. Through play, children can develop their physical abilities and strength. Playing can also help strengthen their motor skills, aside from coordination. It helps them build and strengthen muscles too. Playing can help them move and exercise to make them less sedentary. A child without any physical activity is prone to obesity, but play can help control this as well as manage conditions like diabetes.
Playing can help with a child’s brain development. The social effects of playing can be helpful for a child. Aside from making new friends, it helps them relate themselves with other kids. They can learn to empathise if other children get hurt, or when one is not playing fair. It builds their character, and it develops their emotional intelligence. It lets them discover themselves, which can help them grow.
Children can learn many things just by spending time in a playground for an hour. Every parent or guardian must know the importance of play and how it affects their child. Playing is a children’s right and a necessity that should be met for them to be able to grow as good adults in the future.