The Benefits of Well-Designed Playground Equipment for Schools

In 2023, the average American child spends just 4-7 minutes playing outside — and spends 5-8 hours sitting in front of a screen. 

However, three hours of unstructured free play is recommended for healthy childhood development. Children can use playgrounds during their unstructured play time to explore, create, and use their imagination. 

Children are spending more and more time in front of screens, so it can be a challenge to get them outside. By selecting playground equipment that is unique and designing a commercial playground in a way that is engaging and stimulating, children will be more inclined to spend time outside bonding with their classmates. 

Let’s look at the benefits a properly designed school playground has on child development and the school's overall environment.

School Playground Equipment Benefits: Child Development

1. Physical development

Playground equipment for preschools such as slides, rope climbers, and swings, can help children improve agility, strength, balance, motor skills, and speed. By exploring different playground equipment, children will become more physically confident and adventurous  — positively impacting their willingness to try new sports. 

It is recommended that children get 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity each day. The perfect time to fit this into a child’s day would be at school during lunchtime or recess. Positive playground experiences will encourage children to seek out more physical activity outside of school hours — promoting active lifestyle habits that will continue into their adolescence.

2. Builds Social Skills

There are plenty of opportunities for children to practice their social skills with their classmates on playgrounds. Children can collaborate by creating their own games or using their imaginations to role-play. They can also learn how to compromise and problem-solve independently without direct instruction from an adult.

3. Nurtures Cognitive Development

Cognitive development involves engaging in activities that stimulate thought, and reasoning, and challenge the senses. It is fundamental for children because it forms the basis for understanding and learning new information.

School playground equipment that is helpful for cognitive development can be musical toys and puzzles or play structures that require a child to balance or climb.

4. Improves mental health  

Playground equipment boosts dopamine — a neurotransmitter that is responsible for producing feelings of immense happiness. The combination of sunny weather, a sense of novelty, and physical play is the perfect recipe for joy. 

In addition, children can learn how to self-regulate their emotions in a healthy manner, by experiencing challenges that may evoke disappointment or frustration. 

5. Boosts Creativity

A well-designed school playground will allow children to use their imagination to invent unique stories and scenarios, independently or with their classmates. With a themed playground, like a pirate ship or train, children can transport themselves to different worlds. 

School Playground Equipment Benefits: School Environment 

School playground equipment not only supports independent childhood development but also creates a healthy, productive school environment. Playground design that is well-executed and thoroughly planned will foster a sense of community and a conducive atmosphere for learning and growing. 

1. Student Engagement

Work hard, play hard! A colorful and characterful playground will give students another reason to be excited to attend school. It can be a great motivator for engagement in the classroom because children will understand that they will be rewarded with playtime as a result of focusing in the classroom.  

2. Positive School Culture

A well-maintained playground can contribute to building a positive school culture. Students can freely bond, interact, play, and build friendships with their classmates —  creating a sense of belonging and community. Students will be able to successfully collaborate when working together on projects in the classroom after building friendships on the playground. 

3. Improves Behavior and Discipline

Playgrounds serve as a healthy outlet to allow students to release any pent-up energy or restlessness. In class, students will have better focus, improved behavior, and be more attentive. 

4. Integration of Educational Elements

Learning doesn’t stop outside the classroom. Modern playground equipment can incorporate educational elements, such as math games, puzzles, and alphabet games. Integrating educational playground elements can help kids learn on their own — and make it fun!

Improve Your School Playground Equipment

The benefits of well-designed playgrounds for schools should not be underestimated. At Zoom Recreation, we would love to plan, design, and install playground equipment that would benefit the development of your students and foster a healthy school environment. Contact us today so we can learn more about your budget, unique space, and any other inquiries you may have.