Idaho Outdoor Solutions

Backyard Playsets Provide Necessary Playtime

Posted by Mathew Heath Van Horn on Aug 3, 2015 5:34:49 PM

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The American Academy of Pediatrics reports the children need play time. Specifically, “Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength.” Playtime improves social skills such as “learning how to work in groups, to share, to negotiate, to resolve conflicts, and to learn self-advocacy skills.” Karin Bilich from Parents Magazine warns that parents should not forget the importance of playtime; it is a cherished part of childhood and is necessary for a child’s development.

Backyard PlaysetSusan Lundman of Living Strong reports that several commissions studying childhood development discovered that backyard playsets are an easy means for children to achieve the development they need. Specifically:

Physical Benefits

  • Outdoor playsets help get children moving and running
  • Slides work a child’s legs (they have to climb something in order to slide)
  • Bars work on their shoulders and arms
  • Good variety has them run from one playset activity to another

Social Benefits

  • Children learn self-control and turn-taking
  • Talk with other children about interests
  • Build cooperation between races and economic levels

Self-Confidence Benefits

  • Children conquer their fears of new activities
  • Outdoor playsets encourage imaginative play to help children explore emotions

Mental Benefits

  • The motor activities required for outdoor playsets helps develop brain functions
  • First 6 years can be critical for sensory perception and motor skills

As a father, I have seen many of the benefits firsthand. My children have turned a simple plastic telescope into a device where they can see the wonders of the world. They have used a steering wheel to propel their backyard adventures playset toward an evil king’s castle or simply to pick up some friends for lemonade. They use the serving center as practice for future employment or as an escape hatch from a sinking submarine. Throughout their play, they are getting stronger, braver, and more aware of how their bodies work. So much so, that they start to believe that no goal is out of their reach if they work at the problem long enough.

If you would like more information on wooden playsets custom built for your child’s needs, please click on the button below.

Topics: Backyard Adventures