Playgrounds are loved by children all over the world, helping to entertain and develop children’s social skills. There are many playground materials being utilised these days, but some are beginning to leave behind natural materials like wood. We love combining modern design methods with age-old favourites. Many benefits of wooden playground equipment are seen in other materials to some level, but some are best in beautifully natural wooden play items:
Adaptability
Wooden playgrounds provide children with unlimited number of chances to be creative with their play hence reducing the chances of getting bored. There is a range of different ways that some wooden playground equipment can be arranged and fit together, offering a more flexible range of options.
Visual preference
Studies have proved that children love playgrounds that contain natural materials and forms. By using their vision the children are able to imagine new ideas and interact more within the playground. The wooden playground offers a natural environmental feel that almost resembles the play areas found in national parks and other scenic areas.
Skills of construction
Many moveable objects that include rocks, sand, pebbles and logs can be found in a wooden playground. Children are able to use other equipment such as buckets and spades which complement the playground to learn construction skills. Their creativity is also increased as they play with these tools and offers great enjoyment.
Physical fitness is improved
Wooden playgrounds provide landscapes that are uneven. Exercises such as jumping over barriers or climbing on top of log structures are very beneficial for improving the physical fitness of the children.
Social development
The variety of equipment that can be found in a wooden playground provides the children with an opportunity to engage in large projects. These projects spur social development in children as they unite to tackle bigger obstacles.
Ability to confront risk
Part of a child’s development consists of knowing how to confront risk; wooden playgrounds have the ability to provide an environment of this type. Challenges such as jumping and climbing are some risks provided by wooden playgrounds. They balance these risks with some safety measures such as having landing surfaces that are soft.
Interaction
Teachers and parents can play a key role as observers and guides when children are playing. Research has found out that playscapes that are natural such as a wooden playground encourages the teacher to support the children’s development more than in artificial playgrounds. This is because the play equipment will be of high quality.
Engagement
Research has shown that playgrounds that are natural such as the wooden playground tend to hold the attention and affection of children who spend a lot of time playing on them over many years. This consistent play time results in an increase into the children’s physical fitness and can also improve their mental health and wellbeing.