What comes to mind when you hear the words “community playground”? Likely you’re imagining a bright space filled with jumping, climbing, swinging and sliding children, and that’s fair. That’s what a playground should be.
Yet it can also be so much more. A community playground is a multigenerational gathering space that welcomes people of all ages and abilities and has the potential to re-energize and transform its entire community.
But how exactly does a playground go beyond play? Let’s explore how these vibrant spaces can foster connections, inspire creativity, and contribute to the overall well-being of a community.
Cultivating Wellness
Play benefits children’s physical, cognitive, emotional and social development, but did you know that adults will experience improved well-being too? The American Academy of Pediatrics says that as children develop their creativity, problem-solving skills and language skills through family play with adults, the adults will experience improved cognitive function and reduced stress and anxiety.
Building Social Connections
According to the Pew Research Center, only 24 percent of urban residents and 28 percent of suburban residents report that they know all or most of their neighbors. A community playground can increase those numbers. It brings people together and gives them opportunities to interact with each other, sharing stories, exchanging tips and even building friendships.
Fostering Cultural Exchange
For a community playground, being inclusive isn’t just about accessibility. It’s also about reflecting the cultural diversity of the surrounding community, ensuring that all will feel welcome. The
National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) advises, “Incorporating cultural elements and hosting community events at playgrounds fosters a sense of belonging and pride while strengthening community bonds and promoting cultural understanding.”
Engaging the Community
Indeed, playgrounds can be an important location for hosting community events such as fitness classes, yoga sessions, picnics, enrichment activities and parent meetups. This gives community members opportunities to participate in what interests them — and to volunteer, which will give them a sense of ownership and pride. In this way, as NRPA notes in “The Role of Parks and Recreation in Creating Public Spaces,” a playground can become the heart of a community.
Increasing Walkability
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and NRPA, having attractive, engaging playgrounds and parks within walking distance of home encourages families to choose walking over driving. Not only does this reduce families’ reliance on cars, it promotes healthier, more active lifestyles for both adults and children.
Creating a Vibrant Destination
As the Trust for Public Land observes, playgrounds increase the appeal of a neighborhood, drawing in new residents and increasing the value of local real estate. What’s more, an appreciative community will care for these spaces, planning events, engaging in fundraising and collaborating to maintain and improve them over time.
As momentum builds, a community playground will transform into a vibrant, inclusive, multi-use space that appeals to all ages, all abilities and all cultural backgrounds. It will encourage meaningful partnerships within the community. And as it brings people together for recreation, learning and connection, it will enhance the quality of life for all.
Explore the ways Buell can provide play and movement for all spaces. You also can contact your Buell representative to discuss your specific needs.