Project Playgrounds
School Playground Markings involve community-minded citizens assembling a playground with their own hands, often in collaboration with local businesses, schools and governmental organizations. From experienced professionals to individuals with no building experience at all, a wide range of skill sets are used to support project playgrounds. Some volunteers organize fundraising events, while others work with city government and zoning officials to secure permission for construction.
The first step is to determine the purpose of your playground. This will frame your layout plan and decide what equipment to include. The requirements for equipment vary by location, age group, and customer segment. You want to WOW kids when they come to the playground, keep them playing for as long as possible and make sure that the play activities help develop their physical, creative, cognitive and social/emotional life skills.
Project Playgrounds Around the World: Spotlight on Global Initiatives
Once you have your purpose, budget and site determined it is time to begin the planning process. This can be done with a few volunteers or by hiring an outside consultant. Involving as many people as possible can help ensure that the project runs smoothly, is completed on schedule and stays within budget.
Once a design is prepared, the community can be invited to a Design Review Day. This is a great opportunity to get feedback from children and adults about what they would like to see in the playground. Involving the community in the planning, design and construction of a playground helps build a sense of ownership and pride that can last for years to come.