NatureGrounds: Putting Nature Into Play
Research reveals a strong link between children's experiences of being outdoors in nature and their psychological well being and overall development. To support children's health, it is critical to encourage outdoor play in nature. An important concept is the provision of innovative play environments that integrate manufactured playground equipment with the living landscape. This session will review the research-based benefits of naturalized equipment playgrounds and illustrate best practice design principles for playground installations in new and existing parks and school grounds, and strategies for overcoming potential barriers to ensure the sustainability of these valuable community assets. Participants will acquire funding and management ideas, educational materials and resources, and practical ideas for putting nature back into play for children, families, and communities across the nation.
