Managing the risk posed by the playground surfaces is always a huge concern for builders as well as for parents. Builders need to ensure provision of an area that is attractive and feasible for play while parents are worried about the safety of their little ones while they play on outdoor playground equipment. Surfacing playgrounds not only add a layer of security but also protect against several severe fall related injuries. Another advantage of surfacing playgrounds is that it promotes inclusive play by making it easier for kids of all ages and children with special needs to play as well. Safer surfaces also make it easier for parents to let the kids play on their own which is more fun for the little ones and more relaxing for the parents.
Free play is more than just fun. When children are allowed to explore the playground extended beyond the structures and including its surroundings, they get to use their cognitive abilities and put their creative energies to test. They can invent games over and above the commercial playground equipment which provides them with more physical workout as well as good mental exercise. Here are some important points to consider while deliberating the usefulness of surfacing the playgrounds.
It is helpful in promoting mobility
Playground surface allows for elements of fun on its own. Since outdoor playground equipment must be open to and accessible by all, the added layer on the surface allows just that. It not only caters to children and adults of all ages, weights and abilities but also promotes a better sense of community and welfare. A playground is supposed to allow all sorts of abilities to be put to use and explored. When a playground is surfaced, that helps in creative solutions being discovered and the communion of all members of the society in a fun environment.
When the surfacing is resilient, safe and reliable, all types of plays are possible. Children get to play on their own independently or play in teams and learn the value of working together to achieve team goals.
It allows independence of thought and action
Parents are always worried about the safety of their little ones on the commercial playground equipment. While most playgrounds only mean exploring the equipment, with an adult supervisor standing nearby, with a safer surface they get to relax a little and let their kids play on their own. The risk of injury from falling is reduced massively which also makes parents to allow their kids to run around and have fun. Studies have shown that children who regularly have unsupervised play have better developed abilities to decide their own goals and make strategies to achieve them.
It promotes development of creative abilities
Well-designed surfaces do more than just allow for independent play. That also provides the opportunity for kids to use their imagination. A variety of balls, palisades and steppers of different kinds added to the play area can make the little ones invent games of their own and make their own rules. By this sometimes they get to discover new activities and interests which leads them to further their abilities.