The Value of Play

by Jon Scaccia May 1, 2024

For us up North, it’s getting warmer. And that means (at least for me) forcing the kids outside more.

Recent research underscores the critical importance of outdoor play in promoting children’s health and behavioral development. A systematic review has delved into how different features of outdoor play spaces—from swings and sandboxes to the layout and natural elements—impact young minds and bodies.

The Decline of Free Play

It’s alarming how modern lifestyles have edged out time for kids to play freely outdoors. Today, children’s schedules are packed with structured activities and academic demands, overshadowing the simple joys and learning opportunities that unstructured play offers. The United Nations emphasizes play as a fundamental right, highlighting its necessity for children’s development and well-being. This backdrop sets the stage for a deeper examination of how outdoor play spaces can be optimized to foster healthier, happier kids.

Key Findings: More Than Just Playgrounds

The research reviewed 51 articles and highlighted several intriguing findings:

• Physical Activity: Not surprisingly, the most frequent benefit associated with well-designed play spaces was increased physical activity among children. Play areas equipped with varied and engaging structures often encouraged kids to move more, playing a pivotal role in combating sedentary lifestyles.
• Cognitive and Social Benefits: Play environments with natural elements like trees and varied terrains were linked to better social interactions and cognitive benefits. Such spaces invite children to imagine, solve problems, and engage with peers in creative ways.
• Emotional Growth: Spaces that allow for free, unstructured play also contribute to emotional development. When children choose their activities, they learn self-regulation and develop a sense of independence.

The Science of Play Space Design

What makes a play area stimulating isn’t just about having numerous play structures but the quality and variety of these features. Research indicates that the best playgrounds aren’t necessarily the most equipped but those that offer a balance of fixed and loose parts that children can use in various ways. For instance, simple additions like loose parts—such as tires, ropes, and sand—can significantly enhance children’s engagement and creativity.

A New Perspective on Playground Design

The study calls for a shift in how we think about playground design—from focusing on what playgrounds shouldn’t have (like potentially hazardous equipment) to what they must include to support all aspects of child development. This means designing spaces that cater not only to physical activity but also to social interactions, emotional health, and cognitive opportunities.

Engaging the Community in Play Space Design

Involving children, parents, and educators in designing these spaces can ensure they meet the real needs of their users. After all, who better to input how a playground should look than the kids who will use it every day?

Conclusion: More Than Just a Place to Play

The review highlights a clear message: well-designed outdoor play spaces are powerful platforms for promoting children’s health and development. As communities, we must advocate for and invest in these environments to give our children the healthy, balanced, and playful childhood they deserve.

Call to Action

What can you do to help? Advocate for better play spaces in your community, support local school and city council initiatives, and don’t underestimate the power of simple, unstructured playtime.

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About the Author

Jon Scaccia, with a Ph.D. in clinical-community psychology and a research fellowship at the US Department of Health and Human Services with expertise in public health systems and quality programs. He specializes in implementing innovative, data-informed strategies to enhance community health and development. Jon helped develop the R=MC² readiness model, which aids organizations in effectively navigating change.